In just two weeks, the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony will officially kick off 10 days of world-class sporting celebration, welcoming the world to Glasgow through a creative kaleidoscope and Clyde-built journey packed full of music, humour and Scottish surprise.  

The Ceremony will have Glasgow at the heart of the story with performances from global superstars, emerging talent and a cast of 600 volunteers from across Glasgow, Scotland and beyond.

The Glasgow 2026 Opening Ceremony will spotlight huge Scottish talent when Glasgow welcomes the world at the iconic Hydro arena on 23 July

Photography Glasgow 2026

Singer songwriter KT Tunstall, who is currently on a world tour, will return to Scotland to headline with Glasgow 2026 Opening Ceremony, performing her much loved hits in one of the world’s best live entertainment venues.

Hot off the heels of their World Cup anthem, Nathan Evans and Saint PHNX will bring their anthemic sounds and Tartan Army spirit to a home crowd as the cast start to tell the story of the city. 

They’ll be joined by homegrown hero, singer songwriter Callum Beattie who is no stranger to the venue having sold out a Hydro headline show this year and Nina Nesbitt, famed for her storytelling through music, will perform a reimagined version of a much-loved Scottish track.

Electronic-trad band Valtos, one of Scotland’s most exciting live acts, have teamed up with a number of different musicians from across the Commonwealth to soundtrack the ceremonial Parade of Nations. The Skye band’s signature sound, blending traditional Scottish and electronic music, will fill the arena when athletes and teams from the 74 nations and territories step out and present their Baton.

Louisa Mahon, Chief Marketing and Ceremonies Officer at Glasgow 2026, said: “Glasgow doesn’t do things in half measures - we sing louder, dance harder and are known for throwing our doors open wider than anywhere else. On 23 July, we will share that spirit with 74 nations from across the Commonwealth in this beautifully curated ceremony.

“An Opening Ceremony is the extension of the host city’s culture and we’re proud to put the future of Scottish music and current homegrown stars on a bill alongside artists like KT Tunstall, who helped lay the foundations for emerging artists in Scotland.

“They won’t just be providing a soundtrack. The show is a love letter to Glasgow, to Scotland and to the Commonwealth nations we're about to welcome with open arms. This is going to be a night to remember. Don’t miss it, get your tickets today.”

Fans can secure their tickets to witness the magic of an Opening Ceremony now at glasgow2026.com/tickets.