Celtic Connections 2025: Glasgow's iconic folk festival returns

Thousands of artists and visitors will flow through the city for 18 days of traditional and folk performances in iconic Glaswegian venues

Author: Alice FaulknerPublished 16th Jan 2025

Glasgow is set to come alive this January as Celtic Connections 2025, one of the world’s most renowned folk festivals returns to celebrate its 32nd year.

Running from January 16 to February 2, the festival promises 18 days of performances, workshops, and events showcasing the best of Celtic music and culture, alongside innovative global collaborations.

The Emirates Arena will also host its very first musical performance with Peat & Diesel.

This year’s lineup includes more than 300 events spread across Glasgow’s iconic venues, from the Royal Concert Hall to the Barrowland Ballroom.

Featuring artists from over 20 countries, the 2025 festival highlights include headline performances by celebrated acts such as Julie Fowlis, Rhiannon Giddens, and a special reunion of Scottish folk legends Capercaillie.

Emerging talents will also take the stage, ensuring the festival remains a platform for the next generation of musicians.

Around 11,000 visitors are set to flock through Glasgow for the festival.

A central theme for this year is "Heritage in Harmony," exploring how traditional Celtic music continues to evolve through collaborations with modern genres like jazz, electronic, and classical music.

The festival is also marking Glasgow's 850th anniversary, with a special opening night performance dedicated to the city's cultural and musical heritage.

Unique performances will see artists blend old and new, creating a dynamic cultural dialogue that reflects Scotland’s contemporary identity.

Family-friendly events, hands-on workshops, and storytelling sessions will provide "something for everyone", according to organisers.

Aberdonian folk singer, Iona Fyfe, is among those on the line up, who is also celebrating 10 years of live performances.

She said: "The global appeal of Celtic Connection puts Glasgow on the map as a music tourism destination.

"It's so special, a lot of aspiring young folk and musicians really want to play at Celtic Connections and it means a lot - I think we should be really proud of it.

"There is no typical audience because the programme is so vast, wide and varied.

"It brings in music lovers of any and all genres.

"Glasgow's Celtic Connections is an immense exporter of music, and an immense city which is opening its arms up to the world and celebrating different cultures, customs and traditions.

"The crowds are up for anything which is really lovely."

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