THE countdown is on for the 2026 Australian Celtic Festival, with Glen Innes Severn Council confirming preparations are well underway for one of regional Australia’s most iconic cultural celebrations.

Glen Innes Highlands is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors for a festival that brings together culture, heritage and community in a vibrant and uniquely local way.

Mayor Margot Davis said the festival is a highlight of the region’s calendar and a celebration of shared traditions and community spirit.

“The Australian Celtic Festival is a time when our community comes together to celebrate the rich cultural heritage that shapes our region,” Cr Davis said.

“It showcases the pride we have in our history, while creating a welcoming and inclusive experience for visitors to be part of.”

The 2026 festival celebrates the Year of Scotland, featuring a diverse program of music, dance, storytelling and cultural experiences that reflect the traditions of Celtic nations.

A warm welcome is extended to the 2026 honoured guest, Scottish-born Ali Stoner, The Roving Haggis, who will join the Festival for this special Year of Scotland celebration, adding to the unique and authentic festival experience at this year’s ACF Celtic Food Trail.

“Council is also pleased to welcome Mayor Ann-Marie Kimber and staff from Mosman Council,” Cr Davis said.

“We share a longstanding friendship agreement, and this visit marks a meaningful opportunity to reconnect after many years and celebrate that relationship as part of the Festival.”

Glen Innes is preparing for an action-packed weekend filled with music, ceremony, family-friendly fun and community spirit, alongside a range of satellite events across the CBD and Glen Innes Highlands.

The countdown is on for the 2026 Australian Celtic Festival.

In addition to a cracking line-up of national and international music artists, festival-goers can look forward to performances from Australian Celtic Women, an all-female ensemble known for their powerful harmonies and vibrant stage presence, as well as Tim Scanlan and Mana Okubo, blending Celtic traditions with global influences to get crowds moving.

Returning crowd favourite Highlander will also take to the stage, delivering high-energy Scottish Celtic rock with bagpipes, fiddle and a driving rhythm that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

The annual program also includes pipe bands, dancers, markets, food and beverage stalls, competitions, official ceremonies, live-action performances and re-enactment groups, children’s entertainment, a host of fringe events across the region and more.

The ACF Celtic Food Trail is back for its third year as part of the Australian Celtic Festival.

From long lunches and whisky tastings to a special competition and signature Celtic dishes across town, this year’s program is set to be the biggest and boldest yet, festival organisers say.

Highlights include the official opening ceremony on Friday, May 1 in Town Hall Square and the street parade the next day along Grey Street.

Both events are free and take place in the town’s historic main street, offering an opportunity for locals and visitors to be part of the celebration.

Saturday will feature a full program of performances and cultural showcases, while Sunday’s Family Fun Day will include a range of free activities, entertainment and experiences for children and families.

From pipe bands and Highland games to food and cultural displays, the festival offers an authentic and engaging experience in the heart of the New England.

Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, with weekend and day tickets available from the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre or at the Festival Box Office.

Free shuttle buses will operate throughout the festival between the Visitor Information Centre and the festival site, with additional parking available at Shannon Vale Road and accessible drop-off and limited on-site parking provided.

For more information, visit Australian Celtic Festival or contact Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre on (02) 6730 2400. Email enquiries to [email protected].