SESH

The Glad Cafe is a renowned arts venue and nightclub located in the Southside of Glasgow, United Kingdom. Since opening its doors in 2012, The Glad Cafe has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the local music and arts community. The venue was founded by Sarah and Joe Smillie with the mission of fostering a creative and inclusive environment that champions both emerging and established talent across a variety of genres.

Housed in a cozy, welcoming space on Pollokshaws Road, The Glad Cafe integrates a café, bar, and performance area, becoming a beloved haunt for musicians, artists, and local residents alike. Its cultural significance is underscored by its eclectic programming, which spans live music, film screenings, talks, workshops, and art exhibitions. The venue is particularly celebrated for its contribution to Glasgow’s vibrant grassroots music scene, serving as a launchpad for numerous local acts and a hospitable stage for international performers.

The Glad Cafe has always been situated in the heart of the Southside, but over the years, it has seen improvements to its interior spaces, notably enhancing its sound system and performance area to accommodate growing audiences and a widening array of events. Its reputation is one of warmth, diversity, and inclusivity, often cited as a hub where creative exchange flourishes and artistic boundaries are pushed, reflecting Glasgow’s reputation as a UNESCO City of Music. Notable artists who have performed at The Glad Cafe include Scottish pop icon Kathryn Joseph; post-rock pioneers Mogwai; indie legend RM Hubbert; Mercury Prize-nominated rapper Dave Okumu; folk luminary Karine Polwart; contemporary composer Anna Meredith; acclaimed international acts such as This is the Kit and Alasdair Roberts; as well as a wealth of burgeoning talent from Glasgow’s own music scene, including Sacred Paws, Babe, and Rachel Sermanni.