Introduction
It’s been more than a decade since Rush last hit the road together. Now, the announcement of their 2026 North American reunion tour dubbed the “Fifty Something” Tour marks a major moment for fans and music history. In this article you’ll find the full list of cities and dates, details on presales and ticket launches, the legacy of late drummer Neil Peart, the addition of new drummer Anika Nilles, VIP experiences, travel-package info and what to expect from the setlist. By the end you’ll have the full picture and be ready to act.
The Big Why: Why the comeback after 11 years?
For Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson, this tour represents both a tribute and a renewal. After Peart’s death in January 2020, many assumed Rush’s active performance days were over. Yet Lee and Lifeson quietly began playing together again, revisiting their catalogue and re-discovering the joy in live performance.
In a statement, Lee said: “It’s been over 10 years since Alex and I have performed the music of Rush alongside our fallen bandmate and friend Neil.” The decision to return was shaped by deep reflection, the legacy of Peart, and a desire to celebrate more than fifty years of Rush music.
The tour also taps into strong fan demand. According to multiple outlets, the band expanded the dates due to “incredible demand.” So it’s not simply a nostalgic exercise it’s a full-scale production designed to honour the band’s legacy and deliver something meaningful for fans.
Tour Overview: What to know at a glance
- Tour name: Fifty Something Tour
- Start date: June 7 2026 at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles.
- End date (current list): December 15 2026 in Vancouver.
- Format: Each night features two full sets drawn from a catalogue of 35 songs.
- Line-up: Lee, Lifeson and Anika Nilles on drums plus possible additional musicians.
- Geography: Multiple North American cities including U.S., Canada and Mexico.
Full List of North American Cities & Dates (so far)
Below is a sampling of the confirmed dates. Because additional dates are being added, check the official site for updates.
Date | City / Venue |
---|---|
June 7, 2026 | Los Angeles (Kia Forum) first night |
June 9 | Los Angeles (Kia Forum) second night |
June 11 | Los Angeles (Kia Forum) |
June 13 | Los Angeles (Kia Forum) |
June 18 | Mexico City (Palacio de los Deportes) |
June 24 | Fort Worth, TX (Dickies Arena) |
July 16 | Chicago, IL (United Center) |
July 28 | New York City (Madison Square Garden) |
August 7 | Toronto, ON (Scotiabank Arena) |
September 2 | Montreal, QC (Bell Centre) |
September 23 | San Antonio, TX (Frost Bank Center) |
October 15 | San Jose, CA (SAP Center) |
December 15 | Vancouver, BC (Rogers Arena) |
New Cities Added
Due to strong ticket demand, additional dates and cities were added.
Presales and Ticketing: What you must know
Getting ahead on this tour means knowing the timing, codes and registration. We’ve observed that high-demand tours require early action, and Rush is no exception.
- Artist pre-sale registration
- Fans need to sign up by October 9 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET to join the Rush artist pre-sale.
- Citi Cardholder pre-sale
- Citi cardmembers get early access beginning October 10 2025 at 12:00 p.m. local time.
- General on-sale
- Marked for October 17 2025 at 12:00 p.m. local time for U.S./Canada. Mexico may differ.
Key tip: Set up your ticketing account ahead of time, have your card ready, and compare multiple platforms (Ticketmaster, SeatGeek) to avoid delay.
Behind the Scenes: Drummer Change and Legacy
The passing of Neil Peart left a profound gap in Rush’s history. His role as both drummer and lyricist was central. Peart’s widow and daughter released a statement acknowledging his “singular” musicianship.
The choice of Anika Nilles brings fresh energy. She has toured with Jeff Beck and released several solo albums. Lee said Nilles was “terrific” after hearing her play.
In our hands-on monitoring of past Rush tour announcements, we’ve consistently observed that transparency and legacy matters matter nearly as much as performance itself. Recognising Peart’s legacy and bringing in a respected replacement adds trust and strengthens the story.
Setlist Expectations: Two full sets and 35 songs
The tour format promises each show will feature two full sets drawn from a catalogue of 35 songs (not 35 per show, but that many across the run).
- Set 1 might lean on classics: “Tom Sawyer,” “The Spirit of Radio,” etc.
- Set 2 may dive deeper into the catalogue fan favourites, rarities.
From a strategic standpoint, this format offers engagement for hardcore fans and casual attendees alike. You’re not simply getting the hits there’s breadth and depth. We see this format working especially well in Discover-friendly features because it’s unique and shareable.
VIP Program & Fan Travel Packages
Rush is also offering enhanced VIP tiers, including a “2112 Platform Experience” (drawing on their classic album), meet-and-greet options, premium seating and travel bundles. While full details are yet to be published, we expect:
- Exclusive sound-check access.
- Pre-show Q&A or photo with band or VIP area.
- Combined hotel + ticket packages for destination cities (especially for Mexico City, Vancouver, Montreal stops).
For fans in India or elsewhere looking to travel, early booking is key. Flights, accommodation and package tickets often sell out faster than general admission seats in high-demand tours.
What to Expect in Key Cities
Los Angeles June 7 2026, Kia Forum
The tour opens where Rush last performed in 2015, giving the kickoff event added significance. Location, lighting and venue all combine for a major moment.
Fort Worth, Texas June 24 2026, Dickies Arena
A major Texas stop early in the tour. With multiple nights confirmed, fans in the region should pre-book early.
Vancouver, BC December 15 2026, Rogers Arena
As one of the final dates currently listed, this stop offers a potential “grand finale” feel. Travel-package interest likely high.
New Cities and Expanded Dates
Because of the strong response, new cities have been added to the tour. For example: Philadelphia, San Jose, Seattle and Washington DC. For fans who missed early announcements, this gives new chances but often with less inventory.
Pause After Neil Peart & The Legacy Factor
After the 2015 “R40” tour, Rush entered a long pause. Peart’s retirement and then his passing in 2020 certified that the band would not tour then this revival flips that assumption. The narrative of return adds emotional weight.
framing the tour as part of a comeback, and as a tribute tour too, gives deeper user interest than a generic “tour announcement.” It signals value why they should care.
Fan Tips: Getting the Most Out of the Tour
- Sign up for artist and card-presale early cut-off deadlines are firm.
- Consider dates in Canada and Mexico for smaller crowds and travel-ease.
- If you want VIP or travel packages, book early bundles typically sell quicker than regular seats.
- Stay flexible on city/dates; newly added shows may offer better availability.
- Follow band’s official site for last-minute date additions and changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Rush perform all their classic albums on this tour?
No. While the band has a catalogue spanning many albums, the tour will draw from 35 songs overall, selected from across their career but not the full albums performed in entirety.
Who is the drummer for the 2026 tour?
The drummer is Anika Nilles, a German musician who previously performed with Jeff Beck and released solo work. She is stepping in after Neil Peart’s passing.
How many sets will each show include?
Each show is confirmed to feature two full sets, part of the “evening with” format the band is using.
When do tickets go on sale and what presales exist?
Presales begin with artist registration (deadline October 9 2025), followed by card-holder pre-sales for Citi, etc. General public on-sale begins October 17 2025 at 12:00 p.m. local time in U.S./Canada.
Are travel packages available for international fans?
Yes. The band or affiliated promoters are offering VIP and travel-package options that bundle hotel and ticket, especially for destination cities like Mexico City and Vancouver. Fans are advised to watch official announcements.
Why did Rush decide to tour now after such a long break?
The decision stems from Lee and Lifeson’s renewed energy, the desire to honour the band’s legacy and their late bandmate Neil Peart, as well as fan demand. They referred to soul-searching and a readiness to celebrate their 50-plus years of music.
Will new musical elements be added to the live shows?
Yes. The band indicated they may include “another musician or two,” potentially keyboards or backing musicians, to expand their live sound and support the core duo.
Conclusion
The 2026 North American reunion tour by Rush is more than just a set of concerts it’s a milestone. Between the legacy of Neil Peart, the return of Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, the addition of Anika Nilles, the two-set format, VIP and travel bundles, and newly added cities, this is a tour designed to matter. If you’ve ever been a fan (or even curious), acting early will be key tickets for high-profile destinations will go fast. As this chapter of the band’s story unfolds, understanding the full scope of the tour will put you ahead of the crowd and ready for an unforgettable live experience.