Celtic Connections 2026 kicks off next week – Thursday, 15 January – and is set to attracts thousands of music lovers across the world to Glasgow for the premier winter music festival of its kind.
The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.
Celtic Connections, Scotland’s premier winter festival of its kind and delivered by Glasgow Life in partnership with Innis & Gunn, attracts thousands of fans and performers to the city from all corners of the world, offering unforgettable moments, groundbreaking collaborations, and a unique energy and love for music that only Glasgow can provide.
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Celtic Connections Creative Producer, Donald Shaw, said: “Celtic Connections is big, bold and inspiring – it’s a festival that isn’t afraid to take risks, champions artistic expression and believes in collaboration, and having fun.
“There’s a special kind of magic that fills Glasgow every January during Celtic Connections. Come and join us to experience unforgettable shows, world-class artists, and surprises around every corner. We can’t wait to share these moments with everyone who loves music as much as we do!”
Of course, where there’s a festival, there’s frequently also the BBC, and Celtic Connections is no exception. BBC at Celtic Connections returns from Wednesday 21 – Thursday 29 January, bringing a toe-tapping mix of live music, standout sessions and special broadcasts from BBC Pacific Quay.
Recorded in front of live audiences, BBC at Celtic Connections will deliver a vibrant mix of live broadcasts and pre-recorded programmes across BBC Radio Scotland and BBC Radio 4, with shows available to listen to from Thursday 22 January.
Radio Scotland in particular will be all over this year’s event – check local listings for full details of the extensive coverage – while Loose Ends with Stuart Maconie will be heading to Glasgow to record A Celtic Connections special celebrating music, comedy and culture from the festival, featuring guests including comedian Marcus Brigstocke, recorded on Thursday 30 January for future BBC Radio 4 broadcast.
2026 headliners include country music royalty Emmylou Harris, legendary Cuban collective Buena Vista All Stars, Americana powerhouse Lucinda Williams, Scottish folk-rock pioneers Skerryvore, Grammy-winning banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck, Senegalese orchestral sensation Baobab, acclaimed indie duo Watchhouse and Mon Rovîa, who tells his incredible refugee story through the healing sound of Afro-Appalachian folk.
Find full line up and ticket details at www.celticconnections.com.
