The 2015 Global Citizen Festival was a phenomenal experience. Some of the best musicians, most influential leaders and most inspiring global citizens came together to spread awareness of the Global Goals and the many forms of poverty. 

Watch the video above to get a sense of the day's spectacular events. 

And go to TAKE ACTION NOW to keep the momentum going for the Global Goals. 

Here's a quick rundown of some of the festival's major moments: 

Stephen Colbert entered the stage several feet taller than usual in a huge trench coat.

A breathtaking short film called “Home” was then premiered.

Coldplay performed impeccably (“Yellow” is a favorite) and was joined by special guest Ariana Grande!

This year’s Waislitz Award winner was crowned—congratulations Twesigye Kaguri!

Queen Rania of Jordan, Chime for Change Co-Founder Salma Hayek Pinault and First Vice President of the European Commission Frans Timmermans declared significant support for refugees.

Senator Chris Coons championed the Food for Peace Reform Act of 2015 that global citizens have propelled.

David Cameron joined the festival from a refugee camp in Lebanon.

Leonardo DiCaprio emphasized that climate change will affect the world's poorest first. Earlier in the year, he called for widespread fossil fuel divestment.

Ed Sheeran serenaded the crowd and was joined by Chris Martin.

Sunidhi Chauhan and 8 dancers stunned the crowd with her final song.

Vice President Joe Biden spoke eloquently on the need to fight poverty, and then he introduced Barack Obama, who spoke of dignity. 

Common inspired the crowd with his Oscar-winning song “Glory” and invited his friend Sting to perform with him. 

Laverne Cox advocated for girls' education and reminded the crowd that gender equality also means transgender equality. 

Gucci announced its support of Global Citizen and its efforts to spread the Global Goals. 

And then the fearless Beyonce performed!

How could such energy be sustained? Well, none other than Michelle Obama came out afterwards to unveil her #62milliongirls campaign.

And then Bono introduced Malala who got some of the biggest cheers of the night

Two of the greatest philanthropists of all time took the stage--Bill and Melinda Gates--to talk about why the Global Goals have to be acted upon immediately.

Executives from some of the world's most influential companies announced how they will be elevating the Goals.

Finally, Pearl Jam ended the evening with a great performance that included a cover of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" with help from Beyonce. 

Thank you to everyone who put together this year's event, everyone who took actions and everyone who believes that a better world can be achieved if everyone gets involved.

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Editorial

Demand Equity

All the highlights of the 2015 Global Citizen Festival