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Van Morrison is taking the stage across Europe in 2026 with an extensive tour spanning multiple countries and festivals. The legendary Northern Irish musician also just released his 48th studio album, Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge, featuring blues-driven collaborations with iconic artists. Fans can expect intimate shows and rare festival appearances throughout the year.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Tour Scope: April through July 2026 with dates across UK, Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, and Austria
- Album Release: Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge dropped January 23, 2026 via Orangefield Records
- Belfast Launch: Special lunch and show experience at Europa Hotel on April 5 and 6
- Festival Appearances: Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Grolloo Blues Festival, and Noches del Botánico
Van Morrison Announces 2026 European Tour Dates
The legendary singer-songwriter confirmed his 2026 tour schedule with performances spanning multiple European venues. Starting in April, Morrison will perform intimate shows at Belfast’s Europa Hotel on the 5th and 6th, combining lunch experiences with live performances. Following the Belfast residency, he moves to Bath Forum for two sold-out shows on April 28 and 29.
The tour extends into summer festivals, showcasing Morrison’s versatility across different venues. From Cheltenham Jazz Festival to international stages in Madrid, Barcelona, and beyond, the 80-year-old artist proves his commitment to live performance. Special appearances include a co-headlining show with Ronnie Wood at Clam Castle in Austria on July 16.
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The Blues-Driven Album Journey
Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge marks Van Morrison’s most ambitious blues project in decades. Released January 23, the 20-track album features legendary blues collaborators including Buddy Guy, Taj Mahal, and Elvin Bishop. The 48th studio album delivers a spirited, unfiltered blues experience that revisits classic blues standards with fresh interpretations.
According to reports, Van Morrison stated that the album represents his deepest dive into blues music. The project showcases his enduring connection to soul and blues roots, featuring tracks like Kidney Stew Blues, King For A Day Blues, and Deep Blue Sea. The album became available immediately on CD through Orangefield Records with vinyl editions arriving June 19, 2026.
Complete 2026 European Tour Schedule
| Date | Venue | Location |
| April 5-6 | Europa Hotel | Belfast, UK |
| April 28-29 | Bath Forum | Bath, UK (Sold Out) |
| April 30 | Cheltenham Jazz Festival | Cheltenham, UK |
| June 19 | Grolloo Blues Festival | Netherlands |
| June 30, July 1 | Noches del Botánico | Madrid, Spain (Sold Out) |
| July 3 | Auditori Forum CCIB | Barcelona, Spain |
| July 5 | Royal Park | Netherlands |
| July 7 | Gent Jazz Festival | Ghent, Belgium |
| July 16 | Clam Castle | Austria (with Ronnie Wood) |
“Van Morrison continues surprising audiences with a prolific 48th studio album that delivers spirited, unfiltered blues experiences from an artist whose musical connection remains genuinely original.”
Uncut Magazine
Why This Tour Matters for Van Morrison Fans
The 2026 schedule represents Van Morrison’s most concentrated European focus in recent years. The artist’s selective approach to touring makes each announcement significant. These intimate venue selections and festival bookings offer rare opportunities to witness the legendary performer in carefully curated settings rather than large arena spectacles.
Morrison’s emphasis on lunch-and-show experiences at Belfast’s Europa Hotel signals a shift toward more personal, immersive performances. Combined with his blues album release, the tour cycle celebrates Morrison’s artistic journey and enduring relevance. Tickets remain available through official channels, though high-profile dates like Bath and Madrid shows have already sold completely.
What Can Fans Expect in 2026 Based on Recent Performances?
Van Morrison’s recent European appearances showcase an artist energized by live performance. Setlists typically blend iconic classics with deep album cuts and blues standards. Given the 48-track breadth of Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge, expect fresh material featuring his collaborative work with Buddy Guy and Taj Mahal. The festival performances suggest extended sets and improvisation, hallmarks of Morrison’s live approach.
The artist’s touring unpredictability makes advance booking essential. With several dates already sold out, interested fans should act quickly through official ticketing partners. The combination of intimate venues, prestigious festivals, and international locations creates a once-in-a-lifetime tour experience for devoted followers of the Northern Irish legend.
Sources
- Van Morrison Official Website (vanmorrison.com) – Comprehensive tour schedule and album information
- Wikipedia – Album release details and career milestones for Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge
- Uncut Magazine – Album reviews and critical analysis of the 48th studio album
