Programme
Belfast International Tattoo 2026 – Official Programme
Join us at the SSE Arena, Belfast, for a spectacular showcase of music, precision, and tradition as we bring together world-class performers from across the globe. The Belfast International Tattoo 2026 promises an unforgettable celebration of military music, dance, and cultural heritage like never before.
2026 Performers
Here’s a glimpse of the incredible acts taking to the stage this year:
Altnaveigh Memorial Pipe Band to Perform at the Belfast International Tattoo in 2026
Altnaveigh Memorial Pipe Band, based in County Down, has a proud and enduring history within the pipe band community. Founded in 1946, the band was established in memory of those who lost their lives in the Altnaveigh tragedy, and it continues to honour that legacy through music, discipline and community spirit.
Over the decades, Altnaveigh has built a strong reputation both on the competition field and in performances across Northern Ireland and beyond. The band has competed successfully in various grades, earning respect for its musicality, commitment, and strong drum corps, while also remaining deeply rooted in its local community.
In addition to competition success, the band is passionate about developing the next generation of talent, with a thriving learner programme helping to sustain and grow piping and drumming traditions for the future.
The year 2026 marks a significant milestone as Altnaveigh Memorial Pipe Band celebrates its 80th Anniversary. This landmark year reflects eight decades of dedication, remembrance, and musical excellence.
The band is honoured to be part of the Belfast International Tattoo, showcasing its rich heritage and continuing its proud tradition on an international stage.
We are looking forward to welcoming Altnaveigh Memorial Pipe Band to the Arena in September!
Riverina Highlanders Pipe Band to Perform at the Belfast International Tattoo in 2026
Originally established in Autumn of 2014, the Riverina Highlanders was formed with a clear goal: to travel to Indonesia and compete at the Jakarta Highland Games. This inaugural journey marked the beginning of the Band’s international presence. Building on this early success, the ensemble returned to Jakarta the following year, where they achieved outstanding results, earning multiple awards across both solo and band competitions.
The Band draws its members from across southern New South Wales and north-east Victoria — an area collectively known as the Riverina. Renowned as one of Australia’s agricultural regions, the Riverina provides a strong and vibrant community foundation for the ensemble.
Today, the Riverina Highlanders have been reformed as a regional representative band dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditions of Scottish piping and drumming. Their mission is to support musical growth, create pathways for performance at both national and international levels, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that underpins their art form.
A defining strength of the Band lies in its blend of emerging and experienced musicians. Younger players bring energy and enthusiasm, while seasoned members provide guidance and leadership, creating an environment where all can develop their skills, build confidence, and form lasting community connections.
The Riverina Highlanders are proud and honoured to have been invited to perform at the Belfast International Tattoo in 2026, marking an exciting new chapter in the Band’s continuing journey.
Aughnaskeagh Silver Band to Perform at the Belfast International Tattoo in 2026
Aughnaskeagh Silver Band will be performing at the Belfast International Tattoo this year, marking an exciting moment in the band’s long and proud history.
Music has been a part of life in Aughnaskeagh, near Dromara, for well over a century. Records show that there has been a band in the area since 1894, when a local flute band first formed. Over time, the group evolved and in 1955 the band officially became Aughnaskeagh Silver Band, beginning a new chapter as a brass band.
Traditionally known as a marching band, Aughnaskeagh Silver has been a familiar sight throughout the Dromara and Dromore area, regularly parading at local events and community occasions. The band has also had the privilege of performing at many other events across the region, representing both the village and the wider local band scene.
In recent years the band has experienced a welcome resurgence in membership. A number of younger musicians have joined the group and begun learning their instruments, helping to ensure the continued future of the band. Under the guidance of our talented conductor Gary Shields, the band has also expanded its musical repertoire. Alongside the brass band marches that remain central to our identity, we now perform a broader range of concert pieces that showcase the band’s musical ability.
This year is particularly meaningful for the band as they conclude celebrations marking their 70th anniversary as Aughnaskeagh Silver Band. Reaching this milestone is a testament to the dedication of past and present members who have kept the music alive in the community for generations.
Being invited to perform at the Belfast International Tattoo is therefore a great honour for the band. It provides an opportunity to share their music with a wider audience and to represent our community on a larger stage.
‘As we reflect on our history and look to the future, we are proud to remain part of the vibrant local band scene while also being privileged to take our music further afield. The band looks forward to performing at the event and continuing the musical tradition that has been part of Aughnaskeagh for over 130 years.’
