Tattoo pipe major Alisdar McLaren (WA), Connor Ferguson (Adelaide) and Chevii Jay Clarke, in Brisbane to help announce the shows. Photo: Josh Woning
The sights, AND the sounds, of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is returning Down Under — to Brisbane this time.
Suncorp Stadium is to host the Tattoo on February 12 and 14, 2026, in celebration of its 75th anniversary.
The Tattoo is a global musical phenomenon with its mix of Scottish and military band music, precise routines and dance, and cultural displays set against Edinburgh Castle.
It draws over 230,000 spectators annually in Scotland and over 100 million more worldwide through international broadcasts.
Qld Premier David Crisafulli welcomed the news.
“From bagpipes to bugles, Queenslanders will be able to experience the best military performances from across the globe,” he says.
Tattoo CEO Jason Barrett says bringing it to Brisbane for the first time is a “landmark moment in our history”.
“We can’t wait to share this unforgettable experience with Australian audiences,” he says.
Qld Tourism Minister Andrew Powell says the state stands to benefit with up to $39 million in economic benefits and attracting domestic and overseas visitors.
“The Tattoo will be a huge drawcard for Queenslanders who want to see a piece of history and for families looking for an amazing experience,” he says.
Craig Davidson, CEO of Tourism and Events Queensland, says that hosting the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo “is a major coup” for Brisbane.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner says the council is “thrilled” to welcome such a spectacular showcase of music, military tradition and Scottish pride.
“The Tattoo is not only an internationally renowned cultural spectacle but a major economic driver and a testament to our city’s growing global profile,” he says.
BACKGROUND
It has been held in Australia before: Sydney (2005, 2010, 2019) and Melbourne (2016).
Now it’s Brisbane turn.
February next year will bring more than 1000 bagpipers, military bands, dancers and global performers drawn from across the UK, Europe, US, Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere.
Led by the massed pipes and drums from UK military regiments, the show will feature over 30 bands and acts from around the world including fan-favourite Top Secret Drum Corps and performers from the Australian Defence Force.
Tickets go on sale to the general public on Wednesday, May 21, from 10am (local time) through Ticketek.
At the Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo in Scotland. Photo: supplied
