News

Brechin is preparing for its largest invasion in nearly 600 years – but this time, it’s not armies clashing. Instead of the 10,000–16,000 soldiers who fought at the Battle of Brechin in 1452, thousands of music fans will descend on the Angus town in August 2026 for the launch of Summer’s End Angus, a brand-new music and community festival.

Running from 15-16 August 2026, the festival will welcome up to 8,000 people per day to a spectacular mix of live music, comedy, DJs, street performance, family entertainment, local food, drink and crafts – putting Brechin firmly on the Scottish festival map.

But unlike the Battle of Brechin, this new gathering is all about joy, celebration, and community impact. Founded and funded by Brechin-based entrepreneur Katrina Hutchinson-O’Neill, Summer’s End Angus is the first major Scottish music festival to be both female-founded and female-funded. Uniquely, all profits will be reinvested into local not-for-profit projects, from regenerating Brechin High Street to supporting grassroots entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for young people across Angus.

The festival is being delivered in partnership with the award-winning organisers of Party at the Palace in Linlithgow, who have over a decade of experience delivering safe, successful and sell-out festivals that have welcomed world-class acts and generated millions for their local economy.

As well as major headline names (to be announced soon), the festival will showcase Scottish talent across three stages, host a “locals-only” night on the Friday with tickets capped at £5, and provide free fundraising space for community and sports groups. Beyond the festival site, Brechin itself will come alive with buskers, circus performers, pop-up shops and street entertainment, encouraging thousands of visitors to explore and spend time in the town centre. Similar festivals – like HebCelt and Party at the Palace – have brought £1-2 million into their local economy in a single weekend – and Summers End Angus seeks to have comparable economic impact.

Founder Katrina Hutchinson-O’Neill said: “Brechin has seen its share of history, but this invasion is one we can all look forward to. Summer’s End Angus isn’t just about music – it’s about pride, opportunity, and lasting change. We’re bringing something special here to spark energy not just for a weekend, but hopefully for years to come.”

Tickets go on sale this October with an exclusive early bird launch.