Celtic Connections has arrived in Glasgow for 2026

Glasgow has transformed into a global hub for music lovers with the arrival Celtic Connections 2026!  This iconic festival, Scotland’s premier winter celebration of folk, roots, and world music, draws thousands of fans and performers from across the globe. It’s a city-wide experience filled with unforgettable collaborations, surprise performances, and the energy that only Glasgow can deliver.

Donald Shaw, Celtic Connections’ Creative Producer, sums it up perfectly:

“Celtic Connections is big, bold and inspiring – a festival that champions artistic expression, thrives on collaboration, and believes in having fun. There’s a special kind of magic in Glasgow every January during the festival. Come and join us for world-class shows and surprises around every corner.”

When & Where

Celtic Connections runs Thursday 15 January – Sunday 1 February 2026, with over 300 events at 25+ venues across the city. More than 110,000 people are expected to attend, making it Glasgow’s largest winter celebration of music and culture.

Who’s Performing

Get ready for over 1,200 artists, blending global icons with homegrown heroes and rising stars. Headliners include:

• Emmylou Harris (country royalty)

• Buena Vista All Stars (legendary Cuban collective)

• Lucinda Williams (Americana powerhouse)

• Skerryvore (Scottish folk-rock pioneers)

• Béla Fleck (Grammy-winning banjo virtuoso)

• Baobab (Senegalese orchestral sensation)

• Watchhouse (acclaimed indie duo)

• Mon Rovîa (Afro-Appalachian folk storytelling)

Plus, Québec’s vibrant music scene brings Le Vent du Nord and Bon Débarras to Glasgow, celebrating international cultural exchange. Don’t miss the Opening Concert – World Connections at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, plus festival favourites like Roaming Roots Revue, Transatlantic Sessions, and the Danny Kyle Open Stage showcasing emerging talent.

For Music Lovers of All Ages

Celtic Connections is perfect for everyone, including young people. The Under 26 Festival Pass offers discounted entry for ages 18–25, while thousands of local schoolchildren take part in the festival’s acclaimed Education Programme each year.

A Festival for Every Musical Taste

From traditional folk and Scottish ballads to orchestral premieres, jazz, blues, indie, Americana, and even electronic influences, Celtic Connections is a celebration of musical diversity. Special highlights in 2026 include:

• Cross-cultural collaborations connecting Scotland, Sweden, Ireland, Mexico, Brazil, and Iraq

• Innovative shows like Tràigh Mhòr blending Brazilian and Scottish roots

• Multimedia experiences such as the world premiere of Delusions

• Story-driven music nights like the Maclean Brothers’ celebration of global endurance and connection

Plan Your Visit with St Enoch Centre

Whether you’re attending a concert or exploring Glasgow as a visitor, St Enoch Centre is the perfect place to stop for a meal, a coffee, or a bit of shopping before your festival adventure. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, we’re ready to fuel your Celtic Connections experience and help you make the most of your day in Glasgow.

Explore our dining options and plan your visit here: St Enoch Centre – Eat, Shop, Enjoy.

Get Your Tickets

Festival tickets are available now at www.celticconnections.com. Don’t wait – secure your place at Glasgow’s biggest winter music celebration today!