Manchester is at the forefront of the best music in the UK, in our entirely biased opinion, and the world seems to be recognising it. First, the BRITs announced its relocation to our city for the next two years, and now the iconic MOBO Awards, Europe’s biggest and most influential celebration of Black music and culture, is coming to Manchester for the very first time, as part of the MOBO Organisation’s 30th anniversary celebrations.
When & where will the 2026 MOBO Awards take place in Manchester?
Set to take place on Thursday 26 March 2026 live from Co-op Live, the UK’s newest and largest live entertainment arena, this landmark edition of the Awards promises to deliver an unforgettable night of electrifying performances, powerful tributes, and culture-shaping moments.
Since 2009, the MOBO Awards has proudly paved the way by taking its celebrations to cities across the UK, shining a spotlight on Black music and culture while championing local talent and communities. From London to Liverpool, Leeds to Glasgow, Coventry to Sheffield and Newcastle, MOBO has transformed cities, stages and arenas into cultural hotspots.
Now, as the MOBO Organisation steps into its 30th anniversary year, it’s bringing the MOBO magic to Manchester, a city globally renowned for its musical movements, creative spirit and cultural influence.
MOBO Fringe Festival
Ahead of the ceremony, MOBO is also collaborating with Manchester City Council to deliver the MOBO Fringe Festival, a week-long celebration of music, culture, and creativity in the lead-up to the Awards. The free programme will feature industry panels, talent showcases, live performances and creative workshops spanning music, tech, and the arts, creating opportunities for the next generation while spotlighting Manchester’s vibrant local scene.
The MOBO Fringe Festival is a vital part of the MOBO Organisations ongoing commitment to celebrating music, arts, and culture while championing local creatives. Building on the success of MOBO Fringe 2025 in Newcastle, which drew thousands of attendees and delivered an estimated over £1 million in combined economic and social impact for the city and wider North East region, expect an exciting programme designed to ignite the city, empower communities, and continues to inspire audiences nationwide.
Kanya King CBE, Founder and CEO of MOBO Group said: “For 30 years, MOBO has been more than an awards show – it has been a movement, shaping culture, championing creativity, and opening doors for generations of talent. This milestone is a reminder that when you celebrate culture, you don’t just preserve history – you shape the future.
“Three decades on, the MOBO Awards remain a powerful reminder of how music can inspire, unite, and transform lives. Manchester has always been a city of music and movement, and now, together with MOBO, we will write the next chapter of cultural history.”
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We’re honoured to have been chosen by MOBO to host their awards in what is such a special year for them as they mark an incredible 30 years of celebrating Black music and culture. As a proudly diverse city that is known the world over as a city of music, creativity and talent, the MOBOs and Manchester are made for each other.
“We have a lot of expertise as a city in delivering world class events with a global reach, and together with our partners at Co-op Live and across the city we’re determined to do everything we can to support MOBO in making sure next year’s event hits all the right notes and is the very best one yet.”
Fans can register now here to be the first in line for updates and priority access when tickets go on sale in December.
