The latest edition of St James Quarter Sessions has been announced, welcoming more than 80 musical acts to the bustling environs of St James Quarter. Taking place from Friday 16–Sunday 25 August, this second edition of the free music festival will bring some of Scotland’s best up-and-coming talents to a wider audience.

As well as a series of pop-up busking performances in partnership with SNACK Magazine, the full line-up will see live music performances and DJ sets across two main stages and six participating venues, along with pop-up acoustic ‘busker’ performances across the Galleria.

Kicking off the Festival on Friday 16th August, the opening night will feature alt-pop artist Kathryn Aly, folk singer-songwriter Zoe Graham, indie-electronic act The Joshua Hotel and indie-rock quintet Shambolics, who’ll take over the Castle View stage on Level 6 of the Quarter. DJ Disco Tits will then play the night out at an after party from 10pm at The Botanist. 

Other highlights from the festival include vulnerable songwriting from Katie Gregson-MacLeod (main picture), jazz soul from Mama Terra, award-winning folk-jazz wunderkind Fergus McCreadie, the soulful and soothing sounds of singers Inge Thomson and Djana Gabrielle, talented vocalist Viv Latifa, and Glasgow’s synth-pop rising stars Majesty Palm (who we loved when we saw them at this year’s TRNSMT). 

Susan Hewlett, Brand and Marketing Director, said, ‘August will see St James Quarter support a wide range of musical talent from street performers to some of the most exciting new artists from Scotland and beyond. 

'In a year which has seen many small and community festivals cancelled we are delighted to be able to provide a free platform during one of the busiest periods for the arts in Edinburgh. 

‘We know our guests will love a diverse free festival with an abundance of food and drink choices and clean facilities with ‘no mud’ in sight will definitely capture their attention!’

The St James Quarter Sessions will take place from Friday 16–Sunday 25 August; tickets for the events are available on the free St James Quarter app.