Unmissable Events in Glasgow This Weekend: Music, Festivals & More

One of Glasgow’s flagship summer events, the Merchant City Festival fills the streets around the historic Merchant City with free live music, street theatre, dance, markets and family activities, all as part of the Glasgow 2026 Festival and Commonwealth Games celebrations.

Global DJ and producer Calvin Harris plays a huge hometown stadium set as part of Glasgow’s summer of events programme and the Commonwealth Games celebrations, with a full night of dance anthems and special guests at Scotland’s national football stadium.

Experience a candlelit tribute to two of the biggest names in pop and rock as a live ensemble performs iconic tracks by Queen and ABBA in an atmospheric heritage venue, part of a series of multi-sensory Candlelight concerts in Glasgow.

Scottish trad legends Capercaillie share the stage with acclaimed contemporary folk outfits Rura and Fara in an outdoor live programme linked to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, showcasing modern Celtic music to a festival crowd.

Internationally respected DJ Phil Kieran brings his high-energy electronic set to one of Glasgow’s best-loved music bars for an intimate night of techno and house, ideal for travellers looking to experience the city’s nightlife scene.

This powerful multimedia opera by composer Shirley J. Thompson explores the experiences of the Windrush generation, combining orchestral music, visuals and storytelling in the elegant surroundings of City Halls as part of the Commonwealth cultural programme.

Browse local makers, designers and artists at this summer market hosted at the award-winning Burrell Collection, combining craft stalls, art, jewellery and gifts with the chance to explore the museum’s world-class collection in Pollok Country Park.

Solve clues and follow a romantic storyline through atmospheric locations around the Southern Necropolis on this self-guided outdoor exploration game, blending local history, urban discovery and puzzle-solving for couples or friends.

Uncover spooky stories and hidden corners of the city around Glasgow Central Station on this ghost-themed outdoor exploration game, using your phone to follow clues and tales of hauntings while exploring the urban landscape.

Part of the Merchant City Festival’s Watershed strand, this evening brings together poets and artists to launch the Commonwealth River Poetry Anthology, with readings and discussion focused on Glasgow’s relationship with the River Clyde.

Glasgow hosts the 2026 Commonwealth Games, bringing thousands of athletes and spectators for a packed day of competition across venues including the SEC Centre and OVO Hydro, with tickets available for sports such as bowls, para bowls and netball.

The Amazing Bubble Man brings his acclaimed family show of astonishing bubble tricks, comedy and science to the Clyde coast, making it an easy day-trip from Glasgow for families looking for a fun, visually spectacular performance.

Bridgeton Bus Garage opens its doors for a Family and Community Day, with vintage buses, interactive displays, rides and kids’ activities, offering a nostalgic and educational outing in Glasgow’s East End.

Enjoy an afternoon cruise-style gig on the River Clyde as Itchycoo Park perform classic Beatles songs and hits from the decades beyond at this relaxed music event on The Ferry.

This country and western themed afternoon at Glasgow’s Grand Ole Opry offers live music, dancing and Americana atmosphere, perfect for a different kind of Glasgow nightlife experience earlier in the day.