Merchant City Festival

24 July - 2 August 2026

Join us for a two-weekend celebration of culture and community

The Merchant City Festival returns for 2026, transforming the heart of Glasgow into a vibrant hub of creativity from 24 July - 2 August. From circus and dance to a dedicated family programme, we’re bringing arts and performance out of the theatre and onto the pavement.

There will be more information on our iconic Merchant City Festival markets coming soon! 

Merchant City Festival at a glance

Weekend 1 highlights

Merchant City Festival

Surge Festival

Surge Festival

Merchant City Festival Hubs

A Place at the Table: Dinners

Tickets on sale Friday 5 June

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A purple promotional graphic showing the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026 Festival logo on the left and the text ‘Presented with Glasgow Life’ on the right. The background features white geometric line patterns radiating outward, along with curved accents in turquoise, pink, and yellow.

Part of Glasgow 2026 Festival

As a flagship event of the Glasgow 2026 Festival, this year is bigger than ever. We’re bringing an enhanced schedule of performance to the historic Merchant City and nearby venues, proving that in our city, the streets are the stage.

Click here Glasgow 2026 Festival

Watch Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Head to Candleriggs Square every day 24 July - 2 August for sport, food & drinks.

Information and FAQ's