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Rumsey Playfield is a renowned outdoor venue situated within Central Park in New York City, United States. Established as a recreational field in the southern part of the park, Rumsey Playfield has evolved into one of the city's most prominent sites for live music and cultural events. The venue was not originally conceived as a nightclub in the traditional sense but transformed over the years into a celebrated open-air stage, especially after the launch of the annual SummerStage concert series in 1986.

This series cemented Rumsey Playfield’s status as a vital cultural space, bringing together a diverse array of music, dance, theater, and spoken word performances, all set against the lush backdrop of Central Park. The field itself has remained largely in the same location throughout its history, located near the park’s East 72nd Street entrance, although the stage structure and supporting amenities have been periodically upgraded to accommodate larger audiences and modern production requirements. Rumsey Playfield is celebrated not just for its picturesque setting but also for its commitment to accessible art, with many events being free to the public.

It holds a special place in New York’s cultural life by democratizing exposure to world-class performances and fostering community among city dwellers and visitors alike. Notable artists who have graced the stage at Rumsey Playfield include international icons such as Stevie Wonder, David Byrne, Florence and the Machine, Moby, Femi Kuti, and The Roots, alongside acclaimed local acts like Vampire Weekend, Norah Jones, Q-Tip, and Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings. The venue has also hosted performances by legendary artists including Elvis Costello, Public Enemy, Janelle Monáe, Cut Copy, and the New York Philharmonic, further establishing itself as a hub for diverse and influential musical talents from around the world and the vibrant New York City scene.