by Rush legends Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have announced their return to the stage for a 2026 tour, marking the band’s first performances in over a decade. The announcement was shared on Rush’s official Instagram.
The tour will celebrate over 50 years of Rush music, with special “evening with” shows featuring two sets each night across seven cities in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The tour kicks off June 7, 2026, at The Kia Forum in Los Angeles, with notable dates including July 28 and 30 at The Garden.
Geddy Lee addressed the significance of returning to perform Rush’s music after the loss of drummer Neil Peart.
“It’s been over 10 years since Alex and I have performed the music of Rush alongside our fallen bandmate and friend Neil. A lifetime’s worth of songs that we had put our cumulative hearts and souls into writing, recording and playing together onstage,” Lee said. “And so, after all that has gone down since that last show, Alex and I have done some serious soul searching and come to the decision that we fucking miss it, and that it’s time for a celebration of 50-something years of Rush music.”
Lee introduced the band’s new drummer, who will help carry on Rush’s legacy.
“So in 2026 my BFF Lerxst (aka Alex Lifeson) and I are going to hit the road once again to pay tribute to our past and to Neil by performing a vast selection of Rush songs in a handful of cities. No small task, because as we all know Neil was irreplaceable. Yet life is full of surprises, and we have been introduced to another remarkable person; an incredible drummer and musician who is adding another chapter to our story while continuing her own fascinating musical journey,” he continued. “Her name is Anika Nilles, and we could not be more excited to introduce her to our loyal and dedicated RUSH fanbase, whom, we know, will give her every chance to live up to that near impossible role.”
The band plans to expand their lineup for the tour to enhance the live experience.
“Before we hit the stage, we also hope to add another musician or two to expand our sound a wee bit and free up Alex and I, in order to show off some of our new fancy dance steps,” Lee added. “Lerxst, Anika and myself, along with many of our longstanding crew members have been hard at work rehearsing and designing the kind of Rush show you’ve grown accustomed to expect from us. We dearly hope you will come along and help us celebrate our history together.”
Each show will feature a distinct setlist built from a catalogue of 35 songs, including greatest hits and fan favorites.
The announcement marks a significant moment in Rush’s history. The band has been on hiatus since their last performance over a decade ago.
Rush’s official website revealed that the band’s last tour was the R40 Tour, which concluded on August 1, 2015, at The Forum in Los Angeles. The 2026 tour will begin at the same venue, creating a symbolic full circle moment for the band and their fans. The R40 Tour was widely considered Rush’s farewell tour. The band retired from touring primarily due to Neil Peart’s health issues and eventual passing.
The choice of Anika Nilles as the new drummer represents a bold step forward for the band. Rush’s official announcement noted that Nilles is a 42-year-old German jazz fusion and progressive drummer known for her technical skill and dynamic style. She has built a reputable drumming career as a solo artist and clinician in the jazz fusion genre. This makes her a fitting choice to carry on Peart’s legacy on this special tour.
The “Fifty Something” tour will visit seven cities across North America, including Los Angeles, Mexico City, Fort Worth, Chicago, New York City (Madison Square Garden), Toronto (the band’s hometown), and Cleveland, Ohio. The tour not only celebrates Rush’s extensive legacy but is also explicitly meant to honor Neil Peart. This underscores the emotional significance of the event for fans and band members alike.
The reunion comes 11 years after Rush’s last tour ended, marking a momentous return for one of rock’s most influential progressive bands. The tour represents both a celebration of the band’s five-decade career and a tribute to their late bandmate, whose contributions to Rush’s sound and success remain irreplaceable.
