UPDATE: This weekend, Glasgow will come alive with free live music as part of the Celtic Connections festival, featuring intimate daytime pop-up performances in local coffee shops. On Saturday, November 29, music lovers can discover emerging talent at venues across the city, including Patricia’s x SLB in the Southside, Through The House in the City Centre, and Black Pine in the West End.
Scottish songwriter Katie Gregson-MacLeod, who rose to fame after her song “Complex” went viral on TikTok, is urging young Glaswegians to experience these cozy performances. The festival aims to provide an alternative way to find new music, moving away from the digital sphere and into the local community.
Attendees can enjoy sets from notable acts including country group Grayling, award-winning folk trio Fell Line, and indie folk singer-songwriter Mairi Sutherland. “Every year, the festival brings a huge outpouring of music into the city. You can wander around and stumble upon something you’ve never heard before. It’s absolutely magic,” Katie stated.
Young people are encouraged to join the festival’s Under 26 Community, accessible via QR codes at each venue. Participants will have a chance to win a Celtic Connections Golden Ticket, which includes a private sit-down with Katie where she will curate a personalized festival gig list, along with tickets to various shows and a meal at an Innis & Gunn Glasgow Taproom.
Katie, now 24 and from Inverness, is preparing for her biggest show at Celtic Connections in 2025. She reflected on her journey, stating, “Going viral overnight showed me that the most important things in my life and career will always be playing live shows.” With the music industry evolving, Katie emphasizes the importance of experiencing live performances, especially for young artists and audiences.
The full Celtic Connections festival will run from January 15 to February 1, 2026, with tickets available now online. As the city gears up for a weekend of music and discovery, the excitement is palpable. This is an opportunity not just to enjoy live music but to support emerging talent in the vibrant Glasgow arts scene.
Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with the local music community and discover your new favorite artists!
