Now in its 33rd year, the festival is the world’s largest winter celebration of traditional and roots music. Delivered by Glasgow Life in partnership with Innis & Gunn, the 2026 edition features more than 300 events across 25 venues, with over 1,200 performers from Europe, the Americas and Africa.
New economic figures underline the festival’s importance to the city and beyond. Celtic Connections generated an estimated £6 million for the Scottish economy last year, supporting 207 jobs. Glasgow accounted for £4.9 million of that total, with 169 jobs sustained locally during the festival period, despite disruption caused by Storm Éowyn.
The opening night sees World Connections take over Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, bringing together artists from across the programme for new and reworked collaborations. Performers include Palestinian singer-songwriter Amal Kaawash, Malian vocalist Rokia Koné, Canadian songwriter Rose Cousins, Gambian kora player Sona Jobarteh, and Scots favourites RURA.
A major highlight this weekend is True & Bold: A Night for Dick Gaughan, a one-off event celebrating the life and work of one of Scotland’s most influential folk voices. Hosted by Stewart Lee and Mike Harding, the tribute features performances from Karine Polwart, Billy Bragg, Ricky Ross, Karen Matheson, Martin Simpson and many more at the Royal Concert Hall.
The wider programme reflects the festival’s international reach. Performances include Buena Vista All Stars, Lucinda Williams, Emmylou Harris on her farewell tour, and Scots trad-rock favourites Skerryvore. Orchestral highlights include the world premiere of Arabic Symphony by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.
The festival also continues its commitment to new talent and participation. The Danny Kyle Open Stage returns, alongside workshops, sessions and community events. Transatlantic Sessions is back, reinforcing one of the festival’s most recognisable collaborative formats.
Celtic Connections Creative Director Donald Shaw said the festival is about creating moments that can only happen in Glasgow, bringing people together through shared musical experience during the darkest months of the year.
Celtic Connections runs until Sunday 1 February 2026. Full programme details and tickets are available at celticconnections.com.
