The organisers of Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival have unveiled the first wave of artists for their 2026 event, confirming three major headline acts. Indie legends James, synth-pop pioneers The Human League, and Scottish singer-songwriter Callum Beattie are set to top the bill at the Highland gathering next summer. The festival is scheduled to take place from Thursday, 30th July to Saturday, 1st August 2026, returning to the picturesque Belladrum Estate near Beauly, Inverness-shire.
This initial announcement marks a significant moment for Callum Beattie, who will step up to his first-ever major festival headline slot to close the Thursday night. Beattie’s journey with Belladrum began in 2022 with an afternoon set on the Garden Stage, making his ascent to headliner a “full-circle story” for the festival. He joins James, who are returning to the main stage for the first time since 2013 following high demand in post-event fan surveys, and The Human League, who will be making their debut appearance at the event.
Tickets for the 2026 edition are on sale now, available directly from the official festival ticketing partner. As Scotland’s biggest family camping festival, Belladrum continues to offer a diverse programme that goes beyond the music, with the organisers promising a schedule akin to a “Scottish Glastonbury.”
James will be celebrating their 40th anniversary with a setlist spanning four decades, promising iconic hits such as ‘Sit Down’, ‘Laid’, and ‘Getting Away With It’. Meanwhile, The Human League bring 45 years of musical history to the Highlands. Led by Philip Oakey, Joanne Catherall, and Susan Ann Sulley, the group is expected to deliver timeless electronic pop anthems including ‘Don’t You Want Me’ and ‘Mirror Man’.
Adding a splash of colour to the weekend, pop star MIKA has been confirmed for what promises to be one of the most fun performances in the festival’s history, featuring hits like ‘Grace Kelly’ and ‘Relax – Take it Easy’. The line-up also features notable indie names including Razorlight, Kula Shaker, and firm festival favourites Scouting For Girls.
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Festival organiser Dougie Brown expressed his enthusiasm for the 2026 roster: “We’re excited to share the first wave of artists for Belladrum 2026. We’ve curated a line-up that celebrates everything Bella stands for, great live music, discovery, and a strong sense of community. Having James back feels like welcoming old friends back home, and bringing Callum his first-ever major headline festival slot really sums up what we’re about, growing together and being part of incredible artists’ journeys.”
For fans of dance music, Symphonic Ibiza will deliver a fusion of club anthems with a live orchestra. The festival also maintains its strong commitment to Celtic and folk music, featuring 2023 Trad Awards Live Act of the Year winners Trail West, Highland Celtic-rockers Torridon, and electronic fusion duo Valtos.
The announcement also includes a special return for The Crazy World of Arthur Brown. The “God of Hellfire” was forced to postpone his anticipated 2025 performance due to illness but is now confirmed for next summer. The diverse bill is rounded out by a host of rising stars and established acts, ranging from Irish country superstar Nathan Carter to viral sensation Cammy Barnes.
Beyond the music, the three-day event will feature over 100 free family activities, including wrestling shows, theatre performances, circus skills, and arts and crafts. Further acts are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Belladrum 2026 First Wave Line-up
- James (Headliner)
- The Human League (Headliner)
- Callum Beattie (Headliner)
- MIKA
- Razorlight
- Kula Shaker
- Scouting For Girls
- Symphonic Ibiza
- Brooke Combe
- Trail West
- Torridon
- Valtos
- The Crazy World of Arthur Brown
- Nathan Carter
- Cammy Barnes
- Getdown Services
- Lloyd Cole
- Colonel Mustard & The Dijon 5
- High Fade
- Kezia Gill
- The Molotovs
- First Time Flyers
- An Dannsa Dub
- Elias Alexander
- Beth Malcolm
- The Eves
- Rob Heron & The Teapad Orchestra
- Rhythmnreel
- The Dangleberries
- Scott C Park
- Lacuna
- Scotstown Dance Band
- Bad Actress
- Fèis Rois Ceilidh Trail
Image credits:
Belladrum Tartan Heart
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