Your browser does not support JavaScript, which is used by some elements of this page.

Glasgow’s annual folk, roots and world music festival, Celtic Connections celebrates Celtic music and its connections to cultures across the globe. Featuring more than 300 events across multiple genres of music, the festival is renowned for its strong spirit of collaboration, bringing together one-off line-ups for very special one night only collaborative shows. The camaraderie between musicians continues into the wee small hours at the late-night Festival Club – home of legendary musical collaborations and spontaneous sessions. In 2018 Celtic Connections will celebrate its 25th anniversary with Ireland as the International Partner.

  • Platform Image

    Celtic Connections 2015, photograph copyright Colin Goldie

Celtic Connections remains one of the most important global music festival showcases for folk and traditional music. In addition to the performances, a large number of international presenters and programmers are invited by Creative Scotland to attend the annual Showcase Scotland trade fair, which takes place over the last weekend of the three week festival. Celtic Connections generally programmes a large number of Irish artists and bands and also offers Culture Ireland a valuable opportunity to host a stand at the showcase trade fair. Irish bands have successfully generated further opportunities (particularly in the UK, Europe and Canada) following their performances in the festival and from representation by Culture Ireland at the trade fair.