Glen Innes Severn Council says preparations are well underway for the 2026 Australian Celtic Festival, with the event set to again bring the community together while welcoming thousands of visitors to the region.
Held in the Glen Innes Highlands from 30 April to 3 May, the festival highlights the region’s strong sense of identity, celebrating shared traditions, local pride and community connection.
Mayor Margot Davis said the festival plays an important role in strengthening community ties.
“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 will celebrate the Year of Scotland, with a program designed to connect people through music, dance, storytelling and cultural experiences reflecting Celtic traditions.
Scottish-born Ali Stoner (The Roving Haggis) will attend as the 2026 Honoured Guest, contributing to the ACF Celtic Food Trail and adding to the festival’s local and shared experience.
Davis said the festival also strengthens longstanding relationships beyond the region.
“Council is pleased to welcome Mayor Ann-Marie Kimber and staff from Mosman Council. 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,” she said.
Alongside major performances, the festival will feature a wide range of community-focused activities across the Glen Innes CBD and surrounding areas, encouraging participation from locals and visitors alike.
The program includes performances from Australian Celtic Women, Tim Scanlan and Mana Okubo, as well as returning act Highlander, with entertainment designed to appeal across generations.
Community involvement remains central to the event, with pipe bands, dancers, markets, food and beverage stalls, competitions, re-enactment groups and children’s entertainment forming part of the weekend.
The ACF Celtic Food Trail will return for its third year, inviting local businesses and visitors to connect through shared food experiences, including long lunches, whisky tastings and Celtic-inspired dishes across town.
Festival organisers have confirmed the program is finalised, with activities across the weekend aimed at engaging all ages.
Key community events include the Official Opening Ceremony on Friday 1 May in Town Hall Square and the Street Parade on Saturday 2 May along Grey Street, both free and open to the public.
Sunday’s Family Fun Day will provide free activities and entertainment for children and families, reinforcing the festival’s focus on accessibility and community participation.
Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, with tickets available from the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre or the festival box office. Free shuttle buses will operate between key locations, with additional parking and accessible options available.
Council is encouraging locals and visitors to take part in the celebration and experience the strong community spirit of the Glen Innes Highlands.
Further information is available via the Australian Celtic Festival website, by calling the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre on (02) 6730 2400 or emailing eventsofficer@gisc.nsw.gov.au.
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