WOMAD Festival Expands to Glasgow for 2026 Celebration

WOMAD Festival heads to Glasgow in 2026, bringing global music and culture to Scotland’s vibrant Kelvingrove Park.

A New Chapter for WOMAD Festival in Glasgow

If you’re a fan of the rich tapestry of world music, arts, and dance, 2026 just got a lot more exciting. WOMAD Festival, the iconic global celebration founded by Peter Gabriel back in 1980, is making its Scottish debut in Glasgow. This is not just another festival stop — it’s WOMAD planting roots in the heart of a city renowned for its musical heritage and cultural vibrancy.

WOMAD, an acronym for World of Music, Arts and Dance, has traveled far and wide since its inception, touching down in 27 countries. Gabriel’s original vision was to spotlight an eclectic mixture of genres, bringing together a kaleidoscope of sounds that celebrate global cultures. After a strategic pause in 2025 to "re-evaluate, regenerate and reinvigorate" following the pandemic's impact, the festival is roaring back — bigger and more diverse than ever.

Glasgow Embraces WOMAD: What's on the Horizon?

The Scottish edition, dubbed WOMAD Glasgow, will take place on July 3 and 4, 2026, at the picturesque Kelvingrove Park. This venue is a beloved green space nestled in the city, known for its artistic and natural beauty – an ideal backdrop for WOMAD’s vibrant atmosphere.

The lineup is still under wraps, but expectations are sky-high. The festival promises a blend of high-profile and emerging artists spanning genres from pop and dance to folk, jazz, and hip-hop. With three stages in action, attendees can anticipate a rich sonic journey that honors global music traditions while pushing the boundaries of contemporary sounds.

But WOMAD isn’t just about the music. The festival experience will also include:

• Free workshops led by musicians and dancers
• Exotic food stalls featuring dishes cooked by the artists themselves
• Talks and sessions that deepen cultural understanding and appreciation

It’s truly a cultural feast for the senses, encouraging connection and learning alongside dance and good vibes.

Partnership Powers: Glasgow Life & Celtic Connections Join Forces

WOMAD Glasgow is launching in partnership with Glasgow Life, the city’s leading charity for arts, culture, and sport, and Celtic Connections, Scotland’s premier folk, roots, and world music festival. This powerful collaboration ensures the event will not only carry WOMAD’s global flavor but also resonate strongly with local culture and community spirit.

Peter Gabriel shared his enthusiasm:

“It’s brilliant to see the first Scottish WOMAD and thanks to Glasgow Life for giving us this wonderful opportunity. Glasgow is one of the first UNESCO cities of music and it’s always had a warm and welcoming attitude to the people and cultures of the world.”

He also emphasized WOMAD’s role in today’s divided world:

“At a time when hatred is being deliberately whipped up and when differences are being exploited for political gain, it’s increasingly important to have a meeting place which goes in the other direction; where our differences are celebrated, enjoyed and bring us together.”

Billy Garrett, Director of Culture, Tourism and Events at Glasgow Life, added:

“It is fitting that Glasgow, the UK’s first UNESCO City of Music, will add WOMAD Festival to the growing list of spectacular cultural events taking place in the city in 2026. Glasgow’s UNESCO City of Music status continues to open doors for international collaboration, tourism development, and inclusive cultural programming, reinforcing our city’s standing as a dynamic global hub for music lovers and creators alike.”

He went on to highlight the city's rich festival calendar:

“The addition of WOMAD further enhances Glasgow’s enviable cultural events calendar, which already features the likes of Celtic Connections, Glasgow Film Festival, Glasgow International Comedy Festival, the Glasgow Mela, TRNSMT and the Merchant City Festival, among others. Glasgow will proudly join other WOMAD host cities around the world like Adelaide, Las Palmas, Rome and Santiago in hosting a celebration of extraordinary arts performances which emphasises the importance of community, diversity and mutual respect.”

WOMAD’s Legacy Beyond Music: Advocacy and Action

Peter Gabriel’s involvement with WOMAD is just one facet of his multifaceted career as an artist and activist. Beyond curating global music festivals, Gabriel has used his voice to champion important causes.

In September, he joined a powerful message alongside artists like Billie Eilish, Cillian Murphy, Steve Coogan, and Joaquin Phoenix, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza through Together For Palestine ahead of a major benefit concert in London. This underscores his commitment to peace and humanitarian efforts.

Back in 2023, Gabriel also lent his support to Artist for Action to Prevent Gun Violence, an organization pressing Americans to vote in ways that curb gun violence. His perspective was candid:

“As much as I love the United States, I am always appalled at the ease with which anyone can get a weapon.”

And when it comes to technology, particularly artificial intelligence, Gabriel’s thoughts cut through the noise:

“I’m probably just as scared [of AI] as everybody else, but I like to jump in the river rather than talk about it…I do think about it quite a lot, and I think not enough people are thinking about it.”

These insights reflect a musician deeply engaged with the world — using art not just for entertainment but for education, advocacy, and social change.

Looking Forward: WOMAD’s Global Journey Continues

As WOMAD prepares to touch down on Scottish soil for the first time, the excitement is palpable. It’s a chance for Glaswegians and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a festival that celebrates the universal language of music, dance, and cultural exchange.

The 2026 events at Neston Park, Corsham, Wiltshire (July 23-26), and now Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Park (July 3-4) promise a summer packed with unforgettable moments, incredible performances, and community spirit that transcends borders.

Whether you’re a seasoned WOMAD Festival fan or new to the festival’s colorful world, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year.

FAQ

• What does WOMAD stand for?
  WOMAD stands for World of Music, Arts and Dance, a festival celebrating diverse global cultures through music and performance.
• When and where will WOMAD Glasgow take place?
  WOMAD Glasgow is scheduled for July 3 and 4, 2026, at Kelvingrove Park in Glasgow.
• Who is behind WOMAD Festival?
  The festival was founded by Peter Gabriel in 1980 and has since become a global celebration of international music and arts.
• What type of music genres can attendees expect at WOMAD?
  The festival features a vast range of genres including pop, dance, folk, jazz, hip-hop, and more.
• Are there other activities besides music performances at WOMAD?
  Yes, WOMAD includes free workshops, talks, and exotic food experiences, creating a rich cultural immersion.

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