After decades of shaping the soundscape of folk rock, Canadian-American music legend Neil Young has officially announced the final American tour of his career. This heartfelt farewell promises to be more than just a series of concerts — it’s a celebration of a legacy that spans over half a century. With a voice that has inspired generations and lyrics that have stirred the souls of millions, Neil Young is giving fans one last opportunity to experience his music live across the United States.
The tour, aptly titled “Long May You Run: The Farewell Tour”, will kick off in late September 2025 and run through mid-December. Spanning more than 20 cities, the tour includes stops in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Nashville, Austin, and Seattle — cities that have played important roles in Young’s storied musical journey. The announcement has stirred a mixture of excitement and nostalgia among longtime fans, many of whom view this tour as the end of an era.
Neil Young, known for his work with Buffalo Springfield, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and his prolific solo career, has long resisted the glitz of mainstream popularity in favor of musical authenticity. His final tour reflects that same spirit — stripped-back stage setups, intimate venues, and a setlist that reaches deep into his vast catalog. Fans can expect to hear classics like “Heart of Gold,” “Old Man,” “Harvest Moon,” and “Rockin’ in the Free World,” as well as lesser-known gems from his early albums.
At 79 years old, Young remains a powerful and poignant performer. He shared in a statement: “This isn’t goodbye to music, but it is farewell to the road. Touring has given me so much, but it’s time to head home and stay there for good.” His words echo the sentiment of many aging musicians who find the physical and emotional toll of life on the road increasingly challenging, even as the passion to perform remains alive.
The tour will also feature several special guests throughout its run, including longtime collaborators and surprise appearances by fellow legends. Rumors have circulated about appearances from Stephen Stills, Emmylou Harris, and even Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder, who has often cited Young as a major influence. While the lineup may vary city to city, the focus will remain squarely on Young’s extraordinary musical journey.
In a particularly touching gesture, Neil Young will be donating a portion of the tour’s proceeds to environmental and indigenous organizations, causes that have always been close to his heart. From his advocacy for farmers through Farm Aid to his environmental documentaries and projects like the LincVolt, Young’s activism has always gone hand-in-hand with his music. His farewell tour continues that legacy.
Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, with pre-sales already underway for members of Young’s fan club, the Neil Young Archives. General ticket sales open next week, and demand is high. Many venues are intentionally smaller and more personal, reflecting Young’s desire to connect with audiences on a deeper level rather than fill stadiums.
Fans and critics alike are already calling this one of the most important tours of the decade. Music journalists are preparing to follow the journey city-by-city, documenting what may be the last chance to witness one of rock’s most influential songwriters in his natural element: live on stage, guitar in hand, harmonica at the ready, pouring heart and truth into every note.
The tour is also expected to be documented for a future concert film and live album, though Young has remained tight-lipped about those details. If true, it would be a gift to the generations of fans who may not be able to attend in person. Given his history of carefully curating archival material, it’s likely the documentation will match the quality and intimacy of his past releases.
Young’s influence stretches across genres — from grunge to country to punk — and his songs have become anthems for protest, love, and quiet contemplation. His decision to bow out gracefully from the touring world is a reminder of the fleeting nature of live performance and the importance of honoring legacy while the artist is still present.
As fans gear up for what promises to be an emotional and unforgettable string of performances, one thing is certain: Neil Young’s music will continue to resonate long after the final encore fades. His words, melodies, and fearless spirit have carved a permanent mark on the heart of American music.
For those lucky enough to attend a show, it won’t just be a concert — it will be history. One last dance beneath the harvest moon with a legend who never stopped singing the truth.
