RUSH OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES DATES AND CITIES FOR THEIR 2026 ANNIVERSARY TOUR — “THE FIFTY SOMETHING TOUR” WITH NEW DRUMMER ANIKA NILLES: A CELEBRATION OF LEGACY, REBIRTH, AND MUSICAL MASTERY
In a move that sent waves of excitement and nostalgia through the global rock community, Rush — one of the most iconic progressive rock bands of all time — has officially announced the long-awaited dates and cities for their 2026 Anniversary Tour, aptly titled “The Fifty Something Tour.” The tour, which celebrates more than five decades of musical excellence, innovation, and emotional resonance, marks the band’s first major tour in over a decade — and their first without the late Neil Peart, whose passing in 2020 left a profound void in the world of music.
The biggest surprise of all? Rush’s new drummer — none other than the sensational Anika Nilles, the German drumming virtuoso celebrated for her electrifying technique, creativity, and dynamic performances. Nilles, who has been widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted drummers of her generation, is stepping into one of rock’s most revered positions. Her inclusion represents not just a continuation of Rush’s legacy, but also a bold new chapter in the band’s story — one that merges classic artistry with modern energy.
“The spirit of Rush has always been about pushing boundaries,” said Geddy Lee in an emotional statement during the announcement livestream. “We’ve never been afraid to evolve. Neil was irreplaceable — no one could ever ‘replace’ him — but what Anika brings to the table is something truly inspiring. She has that same fearless spirit, that same devotion to rhythm and innovation. This tour isn’t about looking back — it’s about moving forward while honoring everything that came before.”
Alex Lifeson, the band’s legendary guitarist, added: “When we started rehearsing again, it felt right. There was laughter, creativity, that same spark we’ve always had. The music came alive. It’s been emotional, but it’s also been incredibly joyful.”
The Fifty Something Tour will kick off in Vancouver, Canada, on May 15, 2026, before crossing into the U.S. and eventually heading to Europe, South America, and Asia. Fans can expect a carefully curated setlist spanning Rush’s massive discography — from the intricate soundscapes of 2112 and Hemispheres, to fan favorites like Tom Sawyer, Limelight, and The Spirit of Radio, as well as a few surprise deep cuts and even brand-new compositions co-written with Nilles.
Confirmed North American dates include:
May 15 — Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
May 18 — Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
May 21 — San Francisco, CA – Chase Center
May 24 — Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
May 30 — Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center
June 3 — Chicago, IL – United Center
June 6 — Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
June 10 — New York City, NY – Madison Square Garden
June 13 — Boston, MA – TD Garden
After North America, Rush will embark on a European leg featuring stops in London, Berlin, Paris, Stockholm, and Milan, followed by select shows in Tokyo, São Paulo, and Sydney.
Tickets are expected to sell out within minutes when they go on sale Friday, November 15, 2025, with exclusive pre-sale opportunities for long-time Rush fan club members.
The band has also teased a documentary film, Rush: Fifty and Forward, chronicling the emotional rehearsal process, the choice of Anika Nilles as drummer, and the band’s reflections on Neil Peart’s lasting legacy.
“This tour is not a goodbye,” Lee concluded with a smile. “It’s a thank you — to everyone who believed in us, who grew with us, and who never stopped listening. Fifty years of Rush is something to celebrate, not mourn. And we’re not done yet.”
As Rush prepares to step back into the global spotlight, the “Fifty Something Tour” stands as both a tribute and a triumph — a reminder that great music doesn’t age; it evolves, adapts, and keeps on moving to the rhythm of life.
Rush is back. And the world is ready.
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