The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has announced they will be touring the Show The Heroes Who Made Us in Australia and New Zealand in 2026. The dazzling spectacle, a key part of the Scottish events calendar, will be performed in Brisbane and Auckland in February next year, and will include performances by national military forces from Australia and New Zealand as well as from the UK.
Iconic performances
2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the organisation and these events further extend the international reach of the Tattoo that traditionally takes place on the stunning Edinburgh Castle Esplanade every August with a global cast.
The Shows will take place 12 -15th February at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and in Auckland’s Eden Park, home of the All Blacks national rugby team, on 19-21st February. The Australian Defence Force will play a key role at the Brisbane Show, and the New Zealand Defence Force will do the same in Auckland.
The Shows will incorporate elements of this year’s Tattoo theme, The Heroes Who Made Us, spotlighting the individuals who have shaped and supported the iconic performances over the past 75 years. The Heroes Who Made Us will include its signature Scottish bagpipes, massed military bands, Tattoo Dancers, and international performers from across the UK, Europe, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
This emotionally charged Stadium spectacular will bring together over 1,000 of the world’s finest performers to showcase stirring anthems, traditional Scottish heritage and bold, contemporary choreography in celebration of the values that connect us all — honour, community, resilience and pride. Led by the magnificent Massed Pipes and Drums from UK Military regiments, the Show will feature over 30 bands and acts from around the world including fan-favourite Top Secret Drum Corps and performers amongst many more.
A truly remarkable spectacle
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has previously travelled down under to delight audiences with performances in Wellington, Sydney and Melbourne in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2016 and most recently in 2019 at the ANZ Stadium in Syndey. This tour will be the first time the spectacular event has been performed to Brisbane and Auckland audiences. While The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Show has been screened at more than 150 cinemas across Australia and New Zealand in recent years, in 2026 people across the countries have the opportunity to once again truly experience the iconic spectacle in person.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing The Royal Edinburgh Military to Australia and New Zealand once again in 2026. Throughout the 75-year history, the Tattoo has proudly crossed oceans, continually reaching new audiences and connecting Tattoo fans in the unique Tattoo spirit. This upcoming tour will blend our Scottish traditions with the distinctive military heritage of Australia and New Zealand all set against the backdrop of two spectacular venues. We eagerly anticipate hosting new audiences and welcoming back Tattoo fans to witness a truly remarkable spectacle.”
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a globally acclaimed celebration of military tradition, music, ceremony and cultural performance. First staged in 1950, the Tattoo has grown into one of the world’s most recognised live events, bringing together performers from over 50 countries. In 2010, it was granted the Royal title by Her Majesty The Queen, and is proudly supported by its patron, HRH The Princess Royal. The Tattoo has raised over £13 million for services and arts charities since its inception.
Tickets are on sale now through Ticketek. Visit www.edintattoobrisbane.com.au or www.edintattooauckland.co.nz for ticketing info, VIP packages and more.
Main photo: Pipe Major Alisdair McLaren, Highland dancer Connor Ferguson and drummer Chevii Jay Clarke at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. All images courtesy of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.