UBS Arena in Elmont, NY — February 28, 2026

Conan Gray transformed his New York tour stop at the UBS Arena into a theatrical, cathartic dreamscape on his Wishbone World Tour. Well-seasoned on arena stages, the 28-year old moved with the ease and control of a performer who has matured and adapted well into the spotlight. To a crowd of over 19,000 fans, Gray sang with a confidence and stage presence that proved his rising status in mainstream pop.

For each song, old and new, the 28-year old’s loyal following shouted all the lyrics back to the stage. The setlist was balanced between nostalgia and growth. The sonic range from the opening song, “My World” and the mega-hit, “Heather” showed Gray’s evolution from his youthful longing era to arena-sized confidence. The show also revealed how Gray continues to lean into his craft and creative direction with the visual world he built with this fourth album. The storybook-inspired set pieces, Broadway-level lighting design and sparkly sailor-inspired costumes encompassed the cinematic coming-of-age narratives of his Wishbone era. A full live band was embedded into the elaborate scenery — keys, violin, cello, guitar, bass, and drums — adding depth of every track.

As always, Gray found ways to build his connection with his longtime fans. During “People Watching,” he darted into the pit to greet barricade fans, who handed him a Pride flag in an unforgettable moment. Other highlights included his most recent single “Vodka Cranberry,” when fans chanted the hidden lyrics between the repeated “I will” lines. “Maniac” turned the arena into a full-blown dance floor, while “Actor” pulsed with dramatic flair, the band driving each beat with theatrical precision. Midway through the night came the beloved wishbone tradition: “The Exit” ended up being the fan-selected surprise song for the show, which erupted the venue.

For “Conan’s Campfire,” an acoustic segment with Gray alone on the B-stage, he delivered a heartfelt speech: “The most beautiful, full circle, crazy experience, so thank you for being here. I want you to know that you got in your cars and came here — or took the train, or took the bus — to just see some random kid from Texas. Like, I’m just some random kid — I could’ve just had biology with you! I’m feeling very sentimental and grateful, and honestly very proud, so thank you for being here.” He followed the monologue with a tender rendition of another surprise song— “Winner,” proving that New York really did win that evening.

For the encore, “Memories” washed over the arena in bittersweet waves before “Caramel” closed the night on a shimmering high. The New York show proved Wishbone World Tour has been both a creative triumph and a communal catharsis — a celebration of the messy, beautiful act of growing up in— and in front of— this world.

Words & Photography: Katherine Hui