Pitlochry festival organisers secure deal for Perth event

Retro-stye 2-day music bonanza bound for South Inch

The team behind Pitlochry’s Heartland Festival have secured a deal to deliver a new 2-day retro music extravaganza in Perth next summer entitled Replay.

With icons such as Natalie Imbruglia, Altered Images and Blue on the bill, the festival on the South Inch is being tipped to showcase Perth as a ‘premier destination for large-scale events.’

Early bird weekend tickets (limited to 999) go on sale today at www.replayfest.co.uk and council chiefs are predicting the new event will see increased footfall for city businesses, bringing visitors into the city.

Successful footprint

Replay is another feather in the cap for the organisers of Heartland Festival, who are gaining a reputation for bringing successful family-friendly festivals to the entertainment marketplace.

The new event will take place on 15th and 16th August 2026 and is described as a celebration of artists from the 80s, 90s and noughties. Also on the bill are Bay City Rollers, BMX Bandits, 10cc, B*Witched, Toploader, D:Ream, a1 and Rowetta.

As they have done at Heartland Festival, now in its third year, Perthshire craft brewing firm Wasted Degrees will provide the bar, with the Pitlochry-bound brewery last year pouring no fewer than 11 000 pints (read more)

‘Weekend of great music’

Graham Howie, owner of the new Replay festival, said the ambition was to make Replay more than just a one-off but an event that would last ‘many years beyond’ 2026.

“Over the last three years, we have built a solid foundation with the Heartland Festival, and our aim is to continue this through into Replay.

“This city (Perth) has such a vibrant energy, and the South Inch is the perfect setting for a weekend of great music.

“We hope everyone can join us for a trip down memory lane and to celebrate an amazing weekend line-up.”

Economic boost

Perth and Kinross Council leader Eric Drysdale is delighted that the event is coming to Perth.

“Events like this not only create memorable experiences but also attract visitors and residents, increase footfall into our city, and provide a real boost for our local businesses.

“We are confident this will further showcase Perth as a vibrant destination and a premier location for large-scale events.”