One trad musician has announced the return of Hoolie in the Hydro, bringing back a popular 1980's film about Scotland and its people.

This year, the chosen theme is the 1983 film Local Hero, bringing musicians and actors from the film onto the Glasgow stage, inspired by Dire Straits founding member Mark Knopfler, who composed the soundtrack for the film.

Once sharing the screen with Knopfler and other cast members in the film was An Lanntair’s current Head of Visual Arts & Literature Roddy Murray, who was a member of the films ceilidh band The Acetones.

Every year, Mànran’s Gary Innes, who founded the annual trad music celebrations in the Hydro, has been choosing a different theme for each year. This year, the decision to go with Local Hero brings a host of Scottish acts to the stage to celebrate.

The Orcadian band The Chair and Blazin’ Fiddles are among the line-up, making this year both of the band’s first Hoolie debut. Others announced so far is Runrig founding member Donnie Munro, Caledonia singer Dougie MacLean, along with Karine Polwart, Julie Fowlis, and Ruairidh Gray.

Mànran and Beluga Lagoon are also set to join the host of performances for the night.

The 2026 edition of Hoolie in the Hydro welcomes Beatson Cancer Charity as its charity partner.

Hoolie in the Hydro organiser, broadcaster and musician Gary Innes, said: “Somehow the fifth Hoolie in the Hydro is on the horizon, and what a cracker it’s going to be! The story of Local Hero is one of people, place and belonging and that couldn’t be more fitting for these celebrations – we’ll be channelling all of that nostalgia, pride and musical artistry.

“It will be a real privilege to recognise Mark Knopfler’s incredible contribution to Scottish music here in the city of his birth, as well as celebrating our own heroes of the trad scene who have done so much to share the music and inspire new generations.

“Hoolie in the Hydro was created because I believed Scotland’s own music belonged on its biggest stages. Five years on, thanks to the audiences and artists, it feels like Hoolie has become a tradition in its own right, and we can’t wait for another unforgettable night.”

It's been announced that Knopfler is due to be formally inducted into Hands Up For Trad's Traditional Music Hall of Fame as part of the event's celebrations, to which he called it "an honour".

Knopfler said: “It’s an honour to be inducted into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame. One of my earliest memories of Glasgow is singing the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond. I was two years old. I still sing it now. There’s no doubt that Highland music influenced everything I ever did musically. Whether you take the high road or the low road, the Hoolie in the Hydro: Local Hero on 12 December will be a special event.”

Runrig star Donnie Munro said: “Scottish music has this extraordinary ability to bring people together. It tells our stories, celebrates our communities and connects generations in a way few things can. It’s a privilege to be a part of the event, and I know this year’s audience is in for a very special night.”

Hoolie in the Hydro: Local Hero will take place on Saturday 12 December 2026 and tickets are on sale now here.