The MOBO Awards, Britain’s premier celebration of music of Black Origin, will stage its 2026 ceremony in Manchester — marking the first time the awards will be held in the city. The landmark 30th edition is scheduled for Thursday 26 March 2026 at Co-op Live, the city’s state-of-the-art entertainment arena.
Since 2009, the MOBO Awards has proudly travelled the UK, celebrating Black music and culture while uplifting local talent and communities. From London to Liverpool, Leeds to Glasgow, Coventry to Sheffield and Newcastle, the awards have turned cities, stages, and arenas into vibrant cultural landmarks. Now, as the MOBO Organisation marks its 30th anniversary, the celebration arrives in Manchester — a city world-famous for its musical heritage, creative energy, and cultural influence.
In the run-up to the ceremony, MOBO is partnering with Manchester City Council to present the MOBO Fringe Festival— a week-long celebration of “music, culture, and creativity”. This free programme will feature industry panels, talent showcases, live performances, and creative workshops spanning music, technology, and the arts. Designed to spotlight Manchester’s vibrant scene while nurturing the next generation, the Fringe will turn the city into a hub of inspiration and opportunity.
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.”
With Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, adding: “For MOBO to choose to host its 30th anniversary in Manchester is a huge privilege. Greater Manchester has a rich and diverse musical heritage, and I know that the MOBO awards taking part in our region will mean so much to so many people. We will pull out all the stops to make sure this event is given the stage it deserves and it gives people an opportunity to celebrate everything that is great about MOBO.”
Fans can register now at mobo.com/awards to be the first in line for updates and priority access when tickets go on sale in December.
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