What’s Happening?
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has revealed its first lineup of performers for its record-breaking four-night Brisbane season from 12 to 15 February 2026. The announcement was made at Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC) in Toowong by Creative Director Alan Lane, who flew in from Scotland for the occasion. Over 30 international and Australian bands and cultural groups from more than 12 countries will perform in The Heroes Who Made Us, celebrating the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary.
Why It Matters
This marks the Tattoo’s first-ever Brisbane performance and the first return to Australia since 2019. The spectacular will feature over 1,100 performers, promising to deliver a global showcase of music, pageantry, and precision. The event is expected to inject $39 million into Queensland’s economy, highlighting Brisbane’s growing reputation as a major international events destination.
By the Numbers
• 1,100 performers from more than 12 countries will take the stage.
• $39 million is projected to flow into Queensland’s economy.
• 4 consecutive nights of performances at Suncorp Stadium.
• 75 years since the Tattoo’s first performance at Edinburgh Castle.
• 30+ military and cultural groups to participate.
Zoom In
Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band is the only Australian school invited to perform. Pipe Major and Year 12 student, 18-year-old Nicholas Shelburn, said he was honoured to represent the school, having previously performed twice at Edinburgh. The lineup includes the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force bands, the Combined Military Bands of the Australian Defence Force, Queensland Police Pipe Band, Western Australia Police Pipe Band, Australia’s Federation Guard, Norway’s Guard Band and Drill Team, Japan Air Self-Defense Force Central Band, Tonga’s Royal Corps of Musicians, and crowd favourites like Top Secret Drum Corps.
Alan Lane said, “We are absolutely thrilled with the cast we’ve assembled for Australia. This is a truly world-class line-up that brings together the best of music, pageantry and performance… We can’t wait to light up Suncorp Stadium with the colour, energy and precision that makes the Tattoo so iconic.”
Zoom Out
The announcement follows the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary season in Edinburgh, which drew near sell-out crowds of 220,000 and global audiences in the millions. Famous attendees included The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, tennis champion Andy Murray, and Outlander actor Sam Heughan.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said, “This iconic celebration of artistry, tradition and excellence will be elevated by the involvement of local performers… It’s a remarkable opportunity to showcase Brisbane on the global stage, while delivering a significant boost for local businesses.”
Queensland Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell added, “Brisbane is buzzing with anticipation as we prepare to host The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the very first time in 2026.”
Local Impact
The Tattoo’s arrival is a major win for Brisbane’s events calendar, shining a spotlight on Queensland talent and boosting local tourism, hospitality, and cultural pride. It also cements Suncorp Stadium’s status as a world-class venue for large-scale international productions.
What to Look For Next
More international acts are expected to be announced in the coming months as excitement builds for this historic 75th-anniversary production. Limited tickets remain available through Ticketek.
