Manchester’s 2026 Cultural Calendar: Music, Exhibitions and Unmissable Moments
From world-class arenas to immersive exhibitions, the city is set for a year of events that reinforce its position as the North’s cultural capital.
Manchester is set to cement its status as the cultural capital of the North in 2026, with a programme that spans major music events, international exhibitions, and immersive experiences. Across the city, venues and open spaces will host moments that draw local audiences and international visitors alike, highlighting Manchester’s long-standing reputation for creativity and innovation.
At the heart of the year’s cultural offering is Co-op Live, the UK’s largest arena. The venue will host headline moments including the BRIT Awards and MOBO Awards, alongside concerts from global superstars and leading UK artists. The arena’s scale and technical capacity make it a central hub for Manchester’s music calendar, anchoring the city’s cultural ambitions.
The Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly will play a supporting role during the MOBO Awards’ first-ever Manchester edition, welcoming artists, industry leaders, and VIP guests as part of the city’s growing profile as a host for international award ceremonies.
Visual culture also takes centre stage with The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind, making its UK debut at Depot Mayfield. The exhibition brings one of Europe’s most visited art experiences to Manchester, offering an immersive look at the anonymous street artist’s work and underlining the city’s capacity to host major international exhibitions.
Manchester’s electronic music and nightlife scene will be celebrated through the Warehouse Project, which marks its 20th anniversary in 2026. The long-running series continues to draw world-renowned DJs and international audiences, reinforcing the city’s influence in global club culture.
For outdoor music experiences, Live From Wythenshawe Park transforms one of Manchester’s largest green spaces into a summer concert venue. The festival will host headline performances from leading artists, creating one of the city’s standout cultural moments of the season.
Family-friendly and immersive events are also part of the picture, with Bubble Planet Experience making its Manchester debut at Depot Mayfield. The multi-sensory installation, featuring bubbles, light, and illusion, has attracted millions worldwide and brings playful, large-scale interactive art to the city.
Tickets and more information are on venue websites, including Co-op Live and Depot Mayfield.
Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.