Who Are the Headliners for TRNSMT 2026: Lewis Capaldi, Kasabian, and Richard Ashcroft?

The TRNSMT music festival in Glasgow has announced its headliners for 2026, featuring Lewis Capaldi, Kasabian, and Richard Ashcroft. This year's event, taking place from 19 to 21 June, will showcase a diverse lineup including Amy Macdonald, Wolf Alice, Sonny Fodera, CMAT, The Snuts, and Two Door Cinema Club, marking a shift to an earlier date than usual. Organisers DF Concerts aim to enhance the experience for fans and artists, positioning this ninth edition of the festival as a key summer event.

Last updated: 14 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The TRNSMT festival continues to evolve, with its 2026 edition promising a fresh experience for attendees. Set to take place over three days, the festival will feature a vibrant mix of both established and emerging artists. The shift to June, two weeks earlier than its typical July timeframe, suggests organisers are keen to kick off the summer festival season with significant momentum.

Key takeaways

Headliners for the 2026 festival include Lewis Capaldi, Kasabian, and Richard Ashcroft.
The festival will be held from 19 to 21 June 2026, marking a change from its usual July dates.
Additional acts include Amy Macdonald, Wolf Alice, and Two Door Cinema Club.

Timeline: how we got here

TRNSMT festival has become a staple of the UK music scene since its inception in 2017. Here’s a brief timeline of notable events leading to the 2026 announcement:

2017: The inaugural TRNSMT festival takes place in Glasgow.
2022: The festival features headline acts like 50 Cent, Biffy Clyro, and Snow Patrol.
14 November 2023: Organisers announce the headliners for the 2026 festival.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The announcement of headliners Lewis Capaldi, Kasabian, and Richard Ashcroft is the most significant news this week. This marks a notable evolution in the festival's programming as it aims to attract diverse audiences.

What was already established

The TRNSMT festival has been a key player in the UK festival circuit since 2017, consistently featuring a mix of well-known and rising artists. Last year's event set a high bar, with performances from major artists, illustrating the festival's commitment to offering top-tier live music experiences.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The festival is expected to draw thousands of attendees, benefiting local businesses in Glasgow through increased foot traffic, hotel bookings, and restaurant sales. This influx will also coincide with the Commonwealth Games, amplifying the city's profile as a vibrant cultural hub.

Businesses and jobs

Local vendors, hospitality businesses, and event staff will likely see increased demand as the festival approaches. Additionally, the festival's early June date may create opportunities for more summer events in Glasgow, boosting the local economy.

Policy and regulation

With the Commonwealth Games taking place concurrently, local authorities may face challenges in managing logistics and public safety. Organisers will need to coordinate closely with city officials to ensure that both events run smoothly, underlining the importance of effective planning and communication.

Numbers that matter

2026: The year of the ninth TRNSMT festival.
3: The number of headliners announced so far.
50+: The number of acts expected to perform over the three days.
19-21 June: The new festival dates, two weeks earlier than usual.

Definitions and jargon buster

TRNSMT: A music festival held annually in Glasgow, showcasing various artists.
Headliner: The main act or performer at a concert or festival.
Commonwealth Games: An international multi-sport event involving athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should prepare for presales starting on Monday, with general ticket sales available from 14 November. Early ticket purchases are advisable given the popularity of the headliners.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the festival date approaches, expect more lineup announcements and promotional activities. Fans should stay tuned to official channels for updates on additional acts.

Signals to watch

Ticket sales numbers and availability.
Further announcements regarding festival logistics and additional acts.
Local preparations for both the festival and the Commonwealth Games.

Practical guidance

Do

Check for presale and general sale ticket information regularly.
Consider accommodation options early, as local hotels may fill up quickly.
Follow TRNSMT’s official social media channels for updates.

Don’t

Don’t wait until the last minute to purchase tickets.
Don’t overlook local travel arrangements; plan your journey in advance.
Don’t forget to check the festival's policies on items allowed on-site.

Checklist

Stay updated on ticket sales and line-up announcements.
Book accommodation as soon as possible.
Plan your travel to and from Glasgow.
Prepare for varying weather conditions—pack accordingly!
Review the festival's official guidelines for a smooth experience.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

With the festival coinciding with the Commonwealth Games, there may be unexpected logistical challenges that could affect ticket availability, travel, and accommodations. Additionally, the evolving nature of public health guidelines could impact festival operations. Organisers will need to navigate these uncertainties carefully to ensure a successful event.

Bottom line

The 2026 TRNSMT festival is set to be an exciting event for music fans, with significant headliners and a strong line-up. As anticipation builds, ticket buyers should act quickly and stay informed about developments as the festival date approaches. This year's festival not only marks a celebration of music but also a vital boost for Glasgow as it hosts the Commonwealth Games.

FAQs

When will the TRNSMT festival take place in 2026?

The TRNSMT festival will take place from 19 to 21 June 2026.

Who are the headliners for the 2026 TRNSMT festival?

The headliners include Lewis Capaldi, Kasabian, and Richard Ashcroft.

How can I purchase tickets for the festival?

Presales start on Monday, with general ticket sales beginning on Friday, 14 November 2023.