Celtic Connections 2027 Lineup Announced in Glasgow

Key Points

• The Glasgow-based Celtic Connections festival has officially revealed its star-studded line-up for its 34th edition, running in January 2027.
• Musicians from over 20 countries will participate in the 18-day event, covering diverse genres from traditional folk and world music to orchestral and electronic sounds.
• Major highlights include a special orchestral collaboration with renowned Indian composer AR Rahman alongside Rushil Ranjan and Abi Sampa.
• The festival’s signature Roaming Roots Revue will pay tribute to The Beatles with a dedicated programme titled “The Beatles: When I’m 64”, featuring guest appearances from iconic figures such as Boomtown Rats frontman Bob Geldof and Hothouse Flowers singer Liam Ó Maonlaí.
• Environmental themes will feature prominently throughout the festival, with speakers and musicians like George Monbiot hosting special collaborative events.
• General sale tickets are scheduled to go on sale at 10 am on Thursday, October 8, with additional shows to be announced later in the month.

Celtic (Glasgow Express) October 6, 2026 – The renowned Celtic Connections music festival has officially launched its expansive programme for its upcoming 34th edition, bringing together an eclectic mix of international stars, unique cross-genre collaborations, and a heavy dose of Beatlemania.

What Can Audiences Expect from the 2027 Celtic Connections Line-Up?

As reported by staff writers of The National, the 2027 edition of the festival is officially powered by a “spirit of discovery” and features brand new venues alongside massive headline acts.

The extensive line-up includes a high-profile orchestral performance led by acclaimed Indian composer AR Rahman, who will collaborate with Rushil Ranjan, Abi Sampa, and the Celtic Connections Orchestra. In addition, the festival’s popular annual Roaming Roots Revue will be dedicated to celebrating the timeless catalog of The Beatles. Titled “The Beatles: When I’m 64”, this special showcase will feature an array of guest artists.

As detailed by regional news outlets, the Beatles tribute show will feature a guest appearance from Boomtown Rats singer Bob Geldof and Hothouse Flowers frontman Liam Ó Maonlaí, lending their talents to the collective performance.

How Are Environmental Themes Integrated Into the Programme?

As highlighted by journalists covering the festival launch, ecological awareness and climate narratives will form a vital thread running across multiple performances and discussions.

Activist and writer George Monbiot is set to host a special event titled Songs for the Environment alongside Megalichen and FLOWERCORE. Furthermore, groups like The Shackleton Trio will present bespoke musical performances inspired by the world’s oceans and the reality of a changing climate.

Festival creative director Donald Shaw emphasized that the upcoming January showcase is designed to embrace musical exploration, urging audiences to venture out despite the dark winter nights. Speaking on the programming philosophy, Shaw stated that the festival aims to offer “artists people will know and love, new names, unique collaborations and shows that simply won’t happen anywhere else.”

Which Other Notable Acts and Collaborations Are Featured?

As outlined in the official festival schedules, traditional music remains firmly at the heart of the event, complemented by a wide array of international and indie acts.

Traditional music headliners for 2027 include Trail West, Elephant Sessions, Siobhan Miller, Kris Drever, Julie Fowlis, Breabach, Kim Carnie, and Beoga. The opening night will witness the world premiere of Scotland’s GRIT Orchestra at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

Other notable orchestral collaborations include the Irish folk collective Ye Vagabonds joining forces with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Meanwhile, international and indie bills will feature acts such as the Punch Brothers, Jesca Hoop, The Milk Carton Kids, Vera Sola, Admiral Fallow, and José González. Emerging artists will also take center stage through the festival’s dedicated New Voices initiative, supporting acts like Andrew Waite, Tarran, Josie Duncan, BIIRD, Isla Callister, and Astro Bloc.

Background of the Celtic Connections Festival

Celtic Connections has grown over more than three decades to become the UK’s premier annual celebration of roots, folk, and world music. Established initially in Glasgow in 1994, the festival has consistently expanded its musical boundaries, transforming from a traditional Celtic-centric gathering into an expansive international summit of diverse musical genres. By welcoming artists from over 20 countries annually, the event serves as a vital cultural platform that fosters cross-cultural dialogue, commissions bold artistic collaborations, and provides a significant economic and tourism boost to Glasgow during the winter months.

Prediction: How This Development Can Affect Music Enthusiasts and the Glasgow Cultural Sector

For music enthusiasts and the local Glasgow community, the unveiling of the 2027 line-up signals a vibrant start to the cultural calendar, driving high volumes of domestic and international tourism during a traditionally quiet post-holiday month. The inclusion of high-profile global cross-overs—such as AR Rahman’s orchestral fusion and the cross-generational Beatles tribute featuring Bob Geldof—will likely broaden the festival’s demographic reach, attracting pop, rock, and world music fans alongside traditional folk purists. For local hospitality businesses, venues, and emerging artists, the 18-day festival provides an invaluable economic lifeline and an unmatched global stage to showcase new talent.