GLASGOW will once again play host to the iconic Celtic Connections festival as it returns for its 2025 edition with an ambitious and wide-ranging programme that promises to delight music lovers from around the globe.
Running from January 16 to February 2, this 18-day extravaganza will feature around 300 events across 25 venues, with an anticipated 110,000 visitors and 1200 musicians and artists.
As ever, the festival will have a strong Irish flavour, but this year will perhaps be more Irish than most, with Ireland partnering through Showcase Scotland, the element of the festival which showcases international artists for a Scottish Audience, and which will see the best of traditional and contemporary music brought to the festival. Artists such as Niamh Bury Trio, Nuala Kennedy & Eamonn O’Leary, Córas Trio, Fiárock, Grainne Hunt and the Leonard Barry Trio will fly the flag for Ireland this year.
Highlights of the 2025 programme will be sure to include the iconic Opening Concert, which will mark Glasgow's 850th anniversary with a special night of music, spoken word, dance, and film.
Speaking as the programme for 2025 was launched, Culture Secretary Angus Robertson MSP spoke about the importance of cultural collaboration as well as the opportunity to bring celebrated artists to Glasgow.
“Celtic Connections continues to grow its global reputation as one of Scotland’s foremost festivals and an event we are proud to support, bringing together world-class talent and showcasing the very best in folk, roots, and international music,” he said. “This year’s programme unites artists, traditions, and audiences from around the globe in a truly unique celebration. The festival continues to innovate and inspire musical and cultural collaboration, offering something extraordinary for everyone and I’m excited about what’s on offer in Glasgow.”
Multi-Grammy winner Lyle Lovett will make his long-awaited Celtic Connections debut amongst the headline acts, while female artists, including KT Tunstall, Madison Cunningham, and Lady Blackbird, will take centre stage in a reflection of the festival’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices.
The festival will also feature several noteworthy collaborations, such as Breabach’s performance with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra and Finnish band Frigg’s unique partnership with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, Scottish folk quartet Malinky will celebrate their 25th anniversary with a special concert featuring guest appearances.
The international flavour of the festival—which this year puts Irish music and culture to the fore—was identified as a central part of the events by Donald Shaw, Creative Producer of Celtic Connections.
“We are incredibly proud of Celtic Connections’ place as an ecosystem for new music and art,” he said. “In 2025 we are bringing together international icons with emerging acts to create career-defining performances and never-seen-before collaborations, not to mention great nights out for our audiences.
“Celtic Connections went from being primarily a Glasgow festival, to a national festival, to an international flagship event. Like many acts on our line up, we have expanded in size and ambition over the years, drawing inspiration from the old tradition and the boundless possibilities of contemporary music. Through it all, Glasgow remains at our heart, so to open the festival in celebration of our city’s artistic clout is incredibly special. Audiences can expect a night of secret surprises that we hope will bring a real sense of magic and anticipation to the first night of the festival, setting the tone for the weeks ahead.”
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