The city’s award-winning nightlife scene is in the spotlight this spring for the #LoveGlasgow campaign, as Glaswegians and visitors alike are encouraged to support local venues and experience the city’s world-renowned music offering.
Part of a city wide initiative from the City Centre Taskforce to showcase Glasgow’s leisure, social and shopping experiences, the drive will encourage visitors to support the city’s night time economy, all whilst travelling sustainably on Glasgow’s public transport.
Whether it’s the next big thing at the iconic King Tut’s, the city’s hottest DJs at Symbol or BRIT Award winners at the Barrowlands, there’s a reason Glasgow has been the springboard for some of the UK’s hottest up and coming artists like Joesef, The Snuts, and Declan Welsh and the Decadent West.
There’s nothing like a Glasgow crowd when the lights go down and your new favourite act takes to the stage so let us do the hard work for you as we narrow down the top picks across Glasgow’s music and nightlife scene this spring.
Love your city this Spring and support the #LoveGlasgow campaign. Search the #LoveGlasgow hashtag across social media to be inspired for days and nights out.
How to #LoveGlasgow this spring
- Hit the clubs at Symbol and SWG3
New on the city’s nightlife scene, Symbol is an underground club with a roster of international and local DJs already delighting electronic music fans. Having already played host to club legends Slam and Frazi.er, check out techno artist Daria Kolosova set to play on 17th Feb.
One to watch and a bonafide rising star, Glasgow DJ Taahliah will play SWG3 on 18th February – the perfect chance to check out the performer, tipped for huge success by the likes of Mixmag and DJ Mag. The first black trans artist to win at the Scottish Alternative Music Awards, Taahliah’s hometown show at SWG3 will be unmissable.
- It’s About Damn Time at OVO Hydro
If you’re looking to catch some of the biggest acts in the world, head along to the OVO Hydro this spring. Recently scooping UK Venue of the Year at the 2023 Ticketmaster Awards, the 14,000 capacity venue will play host to Yungblud on 22nd February before setting the stage for none other than Lizzo on 8th March. Storming the charts with latest hits ‘About Damn Time’ and ‘2 Be Loved’, Lizzo’s appearance in Glasgow will be the most talked about show in town.
- Hometown Heroes
From hometown shows at King Tut’s to a headline slot at the Barrowland Ballroom, local boy Joesef is flying the flag for Glasgow’s music scene. Having recently released his debut album earlier this year, the singer-songwriter will play two sold out nights at the Barrowlands this March. If you’re lucky enough to have tickets, you can sing along to crowd favourites ‘Joe’ and ‘The Sun Is Up Forever’.
Or, check out Glasgwegian up and comers Spyres at Saint Luke’s on 9th February for a taste of punk and alt-rock. The childhood friends have already made waves on the likes of BBC Radio 1 and Radio X, and now is your chance to catch them in an intimate venue like Saint Luke’s before they break on to even bigger stages
- A Barrel of Laughs
One of Scotland’s most historically significant theatres, a night out at The King’s Theatre always feels special. Check out top tier comedy from the likes of Marc Jennings, Susie McCabe and Fern Brady who are all set to play the King’s in March.
Or, check out Glasgow comedian Ray Bradshaw’s unique show Deaf Com 1 at the Pavilion Theatre, performed in both British Sign Language and English, based on Ray’s life growing up with deaf parents.
- Glasgow on the Big Screen
Glasgow will become a haven for film fans as the Glasgow Film Festival kicks off from 1st – 12th March. Hosting over 250 screenings and events, Glaswegians can spot their city on the big screen as the festival opens with the UK premiere of Glasgow writer-director Adura Onashile’s feature film debut ‘Girl’.
Top picks include the festival’s special International Women’s Day Gala premiere of ‘Typist Artist Pirate King’ starring the city’s own Kelly Macdonald and Monica Dolan. Or, catch Oscar nominee and man of the moment Paul Mescal in ‘God’s Creatures’.
Glasgow Film Festival will transform the city into a film fairground, with screenings taking place at Glasgow Film Theatre, CCA and more across twelve days.
Visitors to Glasgow will be able to get inspiration, itinerary ideas, and festive programming from People Make Glasgow, including top things to do, where to stay, what’s on, and the best places to eat and drink.
Stay updated, follow the #LoveGlasgow hashtag across social media.