Merchant City Festival

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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 Hubs

Place at the Table

Celebrating the city’s diverse food culture and exploring Scotland’s relationship with Commonwealth nations.

Click here for more

Empire Cafe: Watershed

Watershed is a series of events, discussions, film screenings and exhibitions hosted by the team from the award-winning podcast Who owns the Clyde.

Friday 24th - Sunday 26th July &
Friday 31st July - Sunday 2nd August

Click to see what's on

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Follow us on social media      Facebook @Merchant City Festival  | Instagram @merchantcityfestival

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

Event Funders

  • Glasgow 2026 Festival

  • Creative Scotland

  • Event Scotland