Brisbane is set to host the world-renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the first time in 2026, marking a major milestone for the city and the Queensland tourism sector. The event, which will be staged at Suncorp Stadium on February 12 and 14, will feature a spectacular full-scale production celebrating the tattoo’s 75th anniversary with the show titled “The Heroes Who Made Us.”
The 2026 edition of the tattoo will showcase over 1,000 performers, including members of the British Armed Forces, Commonwealth military bands, and international military groups. The grand spectacle will feature an array of military performances, including bagpipes, drummers, Highland dancers, and the precision of military marching, all set to a dramatic backdrop of lights and music.
Premier David Crisafulli hailed the event as a significant achievement for Queensland. “The tattoo is one of the world’s most spectacular outdoor events, so attracting it to Queensland for the first time is no small feat,” he said. “From bagpipes to bugles, Queenslanders will be able to experience the best military performances from across the globe.”
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which has been a staple of Scottish culture for more than six decades, draws from the shared history between Australia and the British Isles. The event celebrates the strong connections Australia has with the Commonwealth nations and pays tribute to those who have served in the military.
The Queensland Government expects the international event to generate a significant economic boost, estimating that the tattoo will contribute $39 million to the state’s economy. The event is also seen as a key highlight in Brisbane’s international events calendar, positioning the city as a leading tourism destination ahead of the 2032 Summer Olympics.
Andrew Powell, the Minister for the Environment and Tourism, emphasized the tattoo’s potential to attract both local and interstate visitors. “The tattoo will be a huge drawcard for Queenslanders and interstate guests alike, all of whom want to see a piece of history and have a world-class experience,” Powell stated. “Bringing an event of this magnitude to Queensland provides amazing economic opportunities, which flow across the hospitality industry, small businesses, and retailers.”
Since its inception in 1950, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has only visited Australia four times, previously held in Sydney and Melbourne. The 2026 performances in Brisbane will be the first time the iconic spectacle is staged in Queensland, making it a unique cultural and tourism event for both locals and international visitors.
With the tattoo’s blend of military tradition and cultural celebration, along with the anticipated economic impact, the event is poised to reinforce Brisbane’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class events and tourism.
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