CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR EVENT

Celtic Connections banishes winter blues as it begins in Glasgow

Celtic Connections kicks off today with this year's edition featuring renowned artists, secret sets, and unique collaborations, showcasing traditional, folk, world, and roots music!

Celtic Connections banishes winter blues as it begins in Glasgow

Article Source: Celtic Connections
Last Updated: 16 January 2025 13:22

Image: Ross Ainslie, Craig Baxter, Aileen Reid, Paul McKenna, Donald Shaw, Madeline Stewart and Rory Matheson get ready for Celtic Connections 2025.

Celtic Connections in partnership with Innis & Gunn will transform Glasgow into a global epicentre of traditional, folk, world and roots music, as the premier winter festival gets underway today with household names, secret line ups, debut performances, unique collaborations and the piloting of a new venue.

The UNESCO City of Music will welcome “the music of the people” to the biggest possible stages for thousands to enjoy over the next 18 days as the 32nd edition of the world-renowned festival, delivered by Glasgow Life, gears up to do what it does best – banish the January blues.

The festival’s home of Glasgow marks its 850th birthday in 2025 and the celebrations will kick off in style tonight at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall with the much-anticipated Opening Concert. The sold-out show will honour the city’s love affair with music, pay homage to its reputation for producing music and poetry of an exceptional scale and calibre, and feature a surprise list of talent representing the past, present and future of Glasgow’s cultural community.

Headline names from home and abroad will captivate audiences from today until Sunday 2 February, including Scottish sensation KT Tunstall, American legend Lyle Lovett, award-winning Madison Cunningham who will be supported by Admiral Fallow’s Louis Abbott, Afrobeat hero Femi Kuti and the Positive Force, soul superstar Lady Blackbird, folk royalty Karine Polwart and hundreds more.

The festival’s bill spans 10 genres including indie, Americana, jazz and orchestral and many folkie festival favourites return with shows guaranteed to get audiences on their feet. The Chair and Fara, who along with newly added support act Gnoss, will showcase the very best in Orkney music, world-folk innovators Croft No. 5 headline the Old Fruitmarket, transatlantic collective the olllam play SWG3 and Peat & Diesel will become the first band to play the Emirates Arena to a packed crowd of almost 5,000.

Indie favourites will be out in force together to celebrate the groundbreaking psychedelic folk music of David Crosby. Acclaimed artists including American songwriter BC Camplight, Liam Ó Maonlaí (Hothouse Flowers), Kris Drever (Lau) and The Staves will team up especially for the show’s debut.

Beloved folk band Breabach will mark 20 years together with a special performance with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, while sonic poet Aziza Brahim unites the sounds of her Western Saharan refugee roots and Spanish base in Barcelona in what will be first Scottish headline show.

Anna Massie is set to direct a powerful line up of artists breathing new life into traditional music for In the Tradition at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall; John Metcalfe brings a special rare audio-visual performance of The Tree to Tramway; and two influential instrumental folk groups unite for the symphonic collaboration of Hawktail & Väsen at City Halls.

A show-stopping line up of incredible Gaelic talent will mark 30 years of prestigious Uist music and language centre Ceòlas at City Halls. Gaelic greats from Uist, Scotland and Cape Breton form the line up including pipers Seonaidh MacIntyre and Alana MacInnes, Gaelic singers Màiri MacInnes and Alasdair Whyte and Canadian brothers Kenneth and Angus MacKenzie.

From the inclusion of 200 community choir singers in Karine Polwart’s The Back of Winter and pipers from Palestine performing as part of Bethlehem Calling; to the host of song and music workshops scheduled including a new People of Colour Trad Session led by Sacred Paws’ Ray Aggs, and events like Battle of the Folk Bands and Danny Kyle Open Stage showcasing the next generation of talent; the 2025 Celtic Connections programme is as vast as it is inclusive.

Altogether, around 1,200 musicians and artists from 20 countries will perform at 300 events across 25 venues, with estimated attendances in the region of 110,000.

Donald Shaw, Creative Producer for Celtic Connections, said: “It’s with immense pride that we kickstart Scotland’s cultural calendar and mark the beginning of Glasgow 850. We hope it will be a fitting start to the year that showcases the sheer vibrancy and significance of our country’s cultural scene and once again raises the profile and potential of traditional music, in its many facets. This year we begin with a profound appreciation for Glasgow’s creative clout, before bringing renowned global talent to the city in the coming weeks. Months of hard work are realised today and we are grateful to our audiences and all those whose support make this event possible.

“Celtic Connections is like the world’s biggest traditional music session – everywhere you look there is music to be found. Folk music, the music of the people, is evident more than ever in the eclectic trad sessions across Glasgow throughout the year, and can be encountered on almost every stage across the city at Celtic Connections over the next 18 days.”


Bailie Annette Christie, Chair of Glasgow Life, said: “What a way to kick off Glasgow’s 850th birthday celebrations, with the iconic Opening Concert of Celtic Connections. The festival is a staple of our city’s enviable cultural calendar and shines a spotlight on Glasgow’s status as a UNESCO City of Music.

“With a diverse programme across a mix of genres, it’s easy to see why Celtic Connections is much-loved by audiences and musicians from near and far. This year’s event again promises outstanding live performances from international acts, homegrown talent, established artists and exciting newcomers.

“There is a buzz about Glasgow in January thanks to Celtic Connections warming up the dark winter nights. It is an annual highlight to see thousands of people visit the city and enjoy everything this wonderful festival has to offer.”


Alan Morrison, Head of Music at Creative Scotland says: “As Glasgow sets off on a year-long celebration of its 850th anniversary, its world-renowned winter festival is ready to let the city’s music flourish. This year, Celtic Connections stretches out even further, embracing the Emirates Arena as a performance venue while providing a high-profile platform for so many home-grown emerging and established acts on other city stages. Glasgow has a proud history of enriching its population with newcomers from other countries, whose cultures are then woven into the fabric of the city. The festival’s international dimension is a true reflection of the connections that continue to grow when music is shared between artists and audiences.”

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “We’re delighted to support Celtic Connections once again through £100,000 from the Scottish Government's 2024-25 EXPO Fund, which will help deliver this year’s festival, including the spectacular opening concert marking Glasgow’s 850th anniversary.
“Celtic Connections is an unrivalled celebration of Scotland’s cultural heritage, bringing together world-class talent and showcasing our rich musical traditions to a global audience.

“As Glasgow marks 850 years, this iconic festival is a shining example of the city’s creative spirit and enduring love of music. With thousands of musicians from 20 countries set to perform, this year’s Celtic Connections promises to be another unforgettable event that will inspire audiences at home and around the world.”


Dougal Sharp, Master Brewer and founder of Innis & Gunn, said: “Celtic Connections is Scotland at its best — brilliant music, great people and a true community spirit. Each year, more and more people get in on the action and we are proud to be part of the explosion of the festival, and of trad music in Scotland.

“This is a truly global event that gives Glasgow – and Scotland – a real boost during what is typically a difficult month for our industry, bringing people together through a shared love of live music. There’s just nothing better, apart from, of course, when it’s accompanied by a pint of Scotland’s premium lager. What better way to brighten up those dark winter evenings!

“Our music is part of what makes Scotland special, along with breathtaking landscapes, inventive history, characterful people and a world-famous drinks industry. All of this combines to create a culture like none other; a truly unique place on the world stage. Like Celtic Connections, Innis & Gunn is Brewed by Scotland, for the world — that’s why this partnership is a match made in heaven.”


Celtic Connections first began in 1994 and has grown in size and ambition ever since, building an international reputation and making an unmatched contribution to the prominence of folk, traditional and world music.

The 2025 bill features world-renowned music, exciting new performances, unique showcases, one-off commissions and collaborations, ceilidhs, workshops, screenings, book launches, dementia-friendly performances, recitals, and talks.

Celtic Connections 2025 in partnership with Innis & Gunn will take place from Thursday 16 January to Sunday 2 February. The programme can be viewed in full and tickets purchased at www.celticconnections.com

Sponsored Links

Glasgow Vintage Vehicle Trust
Glasgow City Council
The Quay
Glasgow Science Centre
City Sightseeing Glasgow

Latest Glasgow News

Hostelling Scotland launches appeal for Gen Z board members to help put the youth back into hostelling

Hostelling Scotland launches appeal for Gen Z board members to help put the youth back into hostelling

THE organisation behind one of Scotland's most historic travel traditions is calling for young people to join its board as it seeks to capitalise on a surge in interest amongst Gen Z travellers.

READ MORE
The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show returns to Glasgow

The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show returns to Glasgow

Here's everything you need to know about the biggest show of its kind in Scotland!

READ MORE
Glasgow International Comedy Festival announce Janey Godley tribute show featuring Elaine C Smith, Susie McCabe and more

Glasgow International Comedy Festival announce Janey Godley tribute show featuring Elaine C Smith, Susie McCabe and more

Glasgow International Comedy Festival (GICF) has announced a special tribute show for comedian Janey Godley, 'An Afternoon for Janey', which will raise funds for two charities.

READ MORE
Stellar line up of leaders unite to influence a better future of work in Scotland

Stellar line up of leaders unite to influence a better future of work in Scotland

Award winning authors, a former SAS soldier, along with HR leaders from Scotland’s top employers are among the speakers for the CIPD Scotland Annual Conference, 2025.

READ MORE
An Evening with Sir Chris Hoy, live in Glasgow this March

An Evening with Sir Chris Hoy, live in Glasgow this March

Don't miss this rare opportunity to spend an evening with Sir Chris Hoy, one of Great Britain's most celebrated sporting legends.

READ MORE
Bonjour, burger lovers... love is in the air!

Bonjour, burger lovers... love is in the air!

Fat Hippo gets frisky with 'Le French Kiss' this Valentine's Day!

READ MORE
Brand new experience to celebrate Mothers Day at Dobbies

Brand new experience to celebrate Mothers Day at Dobbies

This March, Dobbies Garden Centres is offering a new hands-on Mother's Day experience, combining a luxury Afternoon Tea with a seasonal planting workshop.

READ MORE
Wonder Fools bring their new production, The Kelton Hill Fair, to the Tron Theatre Glasgow

Wonder Fools bring their new production, The Kelton Hill Fair, to the Tron Theatre Glasgow

After an incredible sold out and award-winning run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024, Wonder Fools are delighted to bring their brand new show The Kelton Hill Fair to Glasgow.

READ MORE
El Perro Negro turns up the heat for Valentines with Vault City Brewing

El Perro Negro turns up the heat for Valentines with Vault City Brewing

Forget the candlelit dinners and awkward fancy meals this Valentine's Day, El Perro Negro and Vault City Brewing are bringing the heat, flavor, and fizz to burger lovers across Glasgow.

READ MORE
Fayre Play spreads the love with free tickets across Glasgow

Fayre Play spreads the love with free tickets across Glasgow

Glasgow's favourite fairground-themed night out, Fayre Play, are sharing the love this Valentine’s season with an exciting giveaway across the city.

READ MORE
The List set to launch Eat & Drink 365, brand new food guides for Edinburgh and Glasgow

The List set to launch Eat & Drink 365, brand new food guides for Edinburgh and Glasgow

The print publication will launch in Edinburgh this May with a separate Glasgow edition planned for later in the year.

READ MORE
Tropical Tiki Bar unveils new Darts Den with state of the art lanes

Tropical Tiki Bar unveils new Darts Den with state of the art lanes

Get ready to up your game, Glasgow! The city's most exotic hideaway, Tiki Bar, has unveiled an exciting new addition to its offering!

READ MORE
Three community projects are to receive funding to plant more trees in cities and towns across Scotland

Three community projects are to receive funding to plant more trees in cities and towns across Scotland

A community orchard, tree planting and community wellbeing initiative and a local nature reserve are the first projects to benefit from the Urban Forestry Programme.

READ MORE
Free and great value half term activities at Dobbies

Free and great value half term activities at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is offering great value entertainment for families this February half term.

READ MORE
Glasgow show set to host doggie auditions for starring role in Comedy Festival show

Glasgow show set to host doggie auditions for starring role in Comedy Festival show

Could a Glasgow dog be the next Spaniel Radcliffe or Pug Henshall? Is there a budding Collie Firth or Brad Pit Bull, waiting to be discovered?

READ MORE
Celtic Connections 2025 closes on a high note

Celtic Connections 2025 closes on a high note

The 32nd edition of Scotland’s premier winter music festival reached attendances of 110,000, with 125 sold out shows across its 18 days.

READ MORE
Bongos Bingo returns to Glasgow with even more magic and mayhem

Bongos Bingo returns to Glasgow with even more magic and mayhem

Bongo's Bingo is back in Glasgow with a run of spectacular shows, including 80s specials and St. Patrick's Day specials at SWG3.

READ MORE
Chef Tobias Fiegel opens Extra_Ordinary in Finnieston

Chef Tobias Fiegel opens Extra_Ordinary in Finnieston

Chef Tobias Fiegel has opened a new pan-Asian powerhouse in Glasgow Finnieston, flawlessly blending Japanese, Korean, and Chinese dishes.

READ MORE
itison Us charity call out

itison Us charity call out

itison Us have thousands of free respite experiences available for small Scottish charities.

READ MORE
Pavilion Festival Unveils 2025 Lineup with James, Ewan McVicar, Annie Mac, Ben Hemsley, Happy Mondays and more

Pavilion Festival Unveils 2025 Lineup with James, Ewan McVicar, Annie Mac, Ben Hemsley, Happy Mondays and more

Pavilion Festival has today announced the huge lineup for its third year on Ayr Beach with James, Annie Mac, Happy Mondays, Ewan McVicar, Ben Hemsley and more playing live!

READ MORE
Ricky Tomlinson returns to head the cast in this fantastic feelgood musical comedy

Ricky Tomlinson returns to head the cast in this fantastic feelgood musical comedy

Smash-hit musical comedy Irish Annie's is embarking on a new major nationwide tour in 2025, returning to the Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow on 13th June!

READ MORE
Buchanan Galleries launches its Made in Glasgow 2025 initiative, encouraging the next generation to reimagine the future of retail

Buchanan Galleries launches its Made in Glasgow 2025 initiative, encouraging the next generation to reimagine the future of retail

Buchanan Galleries has launched its enterprise challenge, Made in Glasgow, today with St Mungos Academy and Shawlands Academy.

READ MORE
Full cast announced for Death Of A Salesman, coming to Glasgow in March

Full cast announced for Death Of A Salesman, coming to Glasgow in March

Arthur Miller's Death Of A Salesman, one of the greatest plays of the Twentieth Century is coming to The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow as part of a new tour starring David Hayman.

READ MORE
Trust launches storm appeal following extensive damage across Scotland

Trust launches storm appeal following extensive damage across Scotland

The National Trust for Scotland has launched an appeal to support emergency work needed to deal with the devastating destruction caused by Storm Éowyn.

READ MORE
Galactic Carnival is landing in Glasgow

Galactic Carnival is landing in Glasgow

Scotland’s favourite out-of-this-world event, Galactic Carnival, is preparing to launch in Glasgow this spring, promising an intergalactic adventure packed with thrills!

READ MORE
Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show launches a mythical map of Scotland with lead Scottish tour company

Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show launches a mythical map of Scotland with lead Scottish tour company

The biggest show of its kind in Scotland has partnered with Andy The Highlander to create an Enchanted Map of Scotland's most enchanted locations.

READ MORE
Scottish hospitality group serves up new digital loyalty scheme to cut customer bills

Scottish hospitality group serves up new digital loyalty scheme to cut customer bills

Scottish hospitality group, Signature, has launched an innovative new digital loyalty scheme to help cost-conscious customers save money dining out.

READ MORE
Flight Club announces epic competition to celebrate 10th Birthday

Flight Club announces epic competition to celebrate 10th Birthday

The Social Darts bar, with venues in Glasgow and Edinburgh, turns 10 this year and kicks off the year-long celebrations with a seriously cool competition!

READ MORE
Silverburn champions future leaders through Braveheart Challenge

Silverburn champions future leaders through Braveheart Challenge

Over 80 pupils from St Paul's High School in Pollok took part in the national enterprise programme.

READ MORE
Scottish Golf events go LIVE for 2025

Scottish Golf events go LIVE for 2025

Top amateurs and handicap golfers can now sign up for one or more of Scottish Golf's 33 championships in a packed 2025 schedule.

READ MORE

Sponsored Links

Fayre Play
Gin To My Tonic
One Ren
Ayrshire Hospice
City Of Glasgow Chorus
ATG

Sponsored Links

Glasgow Vintage Vehicle Trust
Glasgow City Council
The Quay
Glasgow Science Centre
City Sightseeing Glasgow
Fayre Play
Gin To My Tonic
One Ren
Ayrshire Hospice
City Of Glasgow Chorus
ATG

Popular Events

Summer Nights at the Bandstand
The Summer Nights at the Bandstand festival returns to Kelvingrove Park for a tenth year with 13 nights of live music from elbow, Billy Ocean, Hue And Cry, Teenage Fanclub and many more!
Enlightenment: An Immersive Light Show
Watch the iconic Merchants House of Glasgow come alive with Enlightenment, a spectacular sound and light show, set to the enchanting melodies of Vivaldi's The Four Seasons!
Stephen Wilson Jr.
Nashville-by-way-of-Indiana singer Stephen Wilson Jr. will headline The Garage Glasgow on Wednesday 25th June!
Sparks
Sparks have announced that they'll bring the European leg of their 2025 MAD! Tour to Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Tuesday 24th June!
The Living Tombstone
Dubbed as 'the internet's biggest gaming band', electronic rock duo The Living Tombstone head to The Garage Glasgow on Sunday 1st June!

Popular Listings

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum King's Theatre Glasgow King Tut's Wah Wah Hut O2 Academy Glasgow SEC Armadillo Theatre Royal Glasgow The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow The Glasgow Barrowland Ballroom The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall The OVO Hydro