A spirited crowd, a swirl of tartan, and the unmistakable sound of pipes echoing across the valley—this year’s Australian Celtic Festival has been hailed as one of the most memorable yet, with the 2026 “Year of Scotland” celebration striking all the right notes.
Held at the iconic Australian Standing Stones, the festival once again transformed Glen Innes into a lively hub of Celtic culture, drawing visitors from near and far to share in the music, history and a good dose of highland cheer.
Behind the scenes—and often right at the front—were the many people and groups who brought the event to life. A warm thank you has been extended to Ronnie Bombell and the team at the Visitor Information Centre, whose efforts helped ensure visitors were welcomed with open arms and pointed in all the right directions.
The Australian Standing Stones Management Board also played a central role in keeping the festival grounded (quite literally) in one of the region’s most unique cultural landmarks. Officials, including the visiting Mayor of Mosman, added a touch of civic ceremony to the weekend’s festivities.
Of course, no Celtic festival would be complete without “the pipes—and the drums”—whose rousing performances carried across the hills, rattled the windows in Grey Street, and into the hearts of the crowd.
From the clash of jousters to the feats of strongmen, from wandering buskers to dedicated volunteers and dancers and performers, there was no shortage of entertainment—or enthusiasm. They were joined by a colourful cast of performers, actors, historical re-enactors and clans, each adding their own flair to the storytelling and spectacle. Stallholders and distillers kept spirits high (in more ways than one), while caterers ensured no one went hungry.
Perhaps the biggest thank you of all goes to the visitors themselves. Whether travelling from across the region or across the country, their presence turned a well-planned event into something truly special.
Local ratepayers—whose support helps make events like this possible year after year, must be acknowledged.
The festival also extended its gratitude to its major sponsors, whose backing helps bring the celebration to life—from the music and culture to the unmistakable sense of community that defines the weekend.
All told, the 2026 Australian Celtic Festival proved that when community, culture, history and a touch of humour come together, the result is something well worth celebrating. Or, as many were heard to say over the weekend: “Same time next year?”
Some Stats: No. tickets sold visitors: 3136 No. tickets sold locals: 1105 TOTAL: 4243 No. Performers: 450 (pipers, musicians, dancers, reenactors, athletes and workshop presenters) No. stallholders: 70 No. Clans/societies: 18 No. volunteers: 40 + 20 High School students
Photo credit: Margy Hunter Rose Photography
