Stevie Wonder Cancels House Full of Toys Benefit Concert: ‘Big Idea, Little Time’

To celebrate the 26th edition of his House Full of Toys holiday benefit concert, Stevie Wonder said in a promo video that he was “switching things up.” Instead of performing for one night, the 25-time Grammy-winning legend would perform across four nights — Dec. 18, 19, 20 and 21 — at the Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, however, Wonder is canceling his “big idea” owing to “little time” — with plans to present the benefit concert again next year.

In a statement Wonder read on his L.A. radio station KJLH, he explained, “A week and a half ago I came up with the idea of doing four nights at the Fonda Theatre to raise money for House Full of Toys. Big idea. Little time. So because of that little time, I’ve decided to cancel all four shows. Yet still I will this year put my money where my heart is by giving a substantial donation for the children for House Full of Toys. And next year, we will again do House Full of Toys with the big idea and enough time to put it together.”

People who purchased tickets are being emailed about refunds.

As per tradition, Wonder’s annual benefit concert asks that attendees bring an “unwrapped toy or unwrapped gift of joy.” Presented by the singer/songwriter’s nonprofit We Are You Foundation, House Full of Toys helps assist children, people with disabilities and families in need.

In past years, House Full of Toys has welcomed performers such as Lionel Richie, Queen Latifah, Jazmine Sullivan, Anderson .Paak and Ella Mai in addition to Wonder. The 2024 edition of House Full of Toys — tied to Wonder’s “Sing Your Song! As We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart” tour that year — featured Jon Batiste, Lucky Daye and El DeBarge.

This article was first published by Billboard U.S.