THE darkest days of what promises to be the darkest of winters are set to be illuminated with the return of Celtic Connections.

Covid-19 will mean that festival-goers will be watching from their homes rather than packed venues, but as one of the highlights of a Scottish winter, the news is sure to be met with a collective sigh of relief from music fans.

Across 19 days, the festival will present online performances every night between Friday, January 15 to Tuesday, February 2, 2021.

World-class performances will be available to view online with some of the biggest names on the Scottish music scene and beyond appearing on screens across the world as part of the festival.

Donald Shaw, creative producer for Celtic Connections, said: “Of course one of the hardest consequences of the Covid virus for musicians this year has been the loss of live audiences in venues, so like many festivals we have had to look to an alternative way of presenting the Celtic Connections experience.

“In a world where so much is unknown it is vitally important that as a sector, we do all we can to ensure the longevity of Scotland’s culture.”

He continued: “It has been a challenging but exciting process pulling this year’s digital festival together.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to all of the musicians who have contributed both at home and abroad, it has been brilliant to see them all get behind the concept and support our vision. We can’t wait to bring all of this great music into people’s homes this January.”

Organisers have ensured that, although the majority of the line-up predominantly showcases homegrown talent, a number of international acts remotely filmed are also included so that the essence of what the festival has grown to be truly about – connections, collaborations and relationships – is still prevalent.

The festival will be welcoming homegrown stars such as Talisk, Elephant Sessions, Manran, Karine Polwart, Blue Rose Code, Admiral Fallow, Sian and Kinnaris Quintet as well as Shooglenifty, hot on the heels of the release of their latest album, Acid Croft, Volume 9.

They will be joined by the likes of Argentine/Swedish singer songwroter José González, Alabama-based duo The Secret Sisters and Quebecois Celtic Connections regulars, Le Vent Du Nord.

The full programme is now available online with early bird tickets giving full access to the 19-day festival on sale from www.celticconnections.vhx.tv/