Get ready for a musical extravaganza as Manchester gears up to host the BRIT Awards 2026 with Mastercard! This event is not just a celebration of British music; it's a cultural revolution that will transform the city into a vibrant playground of art, music, and community engagement.
The excitement is building, and Manchester is buzzing with anticipation as it prepares to welcome the world's biggest stars for a spectacular show on February 28th. But here's where it gets even more exciting: this year, the BRITs are leaving their London home and making their debut in Manchester, at the Co-op Live.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the awards night! The BRITs have curated an entire city-wide cultural program that will showcase Manchester's rich musical heritage and creative community. From art trails to exhibitions, music industry forums to intimate gigs, Manchester will be buzzing with activity leading up to the main event.
Let's dive into the details of this extraordinary program:
The BRITs Art Trail
From February 12th to March 16th, the Northern Quarter and Ancoats will come alive with a curated art trail featuring 21 North-West artists. Renowned Manchester artist Stanley Chow has carefully selected these artists to showcase their talent and celebrate the city's vibrant creative scene. The trail will transform everyday spaces into an open-air gallery, with striking murals, immersive installations, and bold billboards.
A Microdot Design by Brian Cannon
Step into a unique gallery experience at Manchester Piccadilly Station from February 17th to March 1st. This pop-up retrospective exhibition will showcase over three decades of iconic British music artwork and design by the legendary Brian Cannon. Get ready to explore the visual legacy of some of the most influential artists of our time, including Oasis and The Verve.
The Rodeo BRITs Special Edition Zine
On February 20th, look out for a limited-edition zine produced by The Rodeo, an independent Manchester music magazine. This special issue will feature interviews with nominated artists, insights from Manchester's music scene, and coverage of all the BRITs-related events happening in the city. It's a must-have for any music enthusiast!
FRINGE LAB
On February 27th, New Century Hall will host a one-day music industry forum, mixer, and live showcase as part of BRITs Fringe. This week-long program celebrates Greater Manchester's music scene and aims to amplify grassroots creativity and elevate local voices. The newly announced lineup includes industry heavyweights and emerging talent, offering a unique opportunity for connection and collaboration.
Manchester Must Dance: An Afternoon with Mike Pickering
Join us on February 28th for a special event celebrating Manchester-born musician, DJ, and songwriter Mike Pickering. Guests will have the exclusive opportunity to hear about Mike's groundbreaking career and his new book, "Manchester Must Dance." Legendary house music DJ Graeme Park will host an in-conversation with Mike, followed by a live Q&A session.
BRITs Week for War Child
Throughout various dates, Manchester will host a series of intimate gigs as part of BRITs Week for War Child, delivered by DHL. These unique performances will feature some of the most exciting names in music, with all proceeds going towards War Child's vital work supporting children affected by conflict. Artists like The K's, Josh Baker, Rossi., Olivia Dean, and Robbie Williams will take the stage, offering fans a rare and memorable experience.
Free Tram Travel and University Students
BRITs ticketholders will enjoy free travel on Manchester's Metrolink tram system on February 28th, simply by presenting their event ticket. Additionally, hundreds of students from Manchester universities have been invited to attend the show from the front-row audience pit, cheering on the winners and performers.
The Impact and Legacy
The BRITs' move to Manchester is not just about hosting an awards show; it's about celebrating and amplifying the city's cultural impact. Dr. Jo Twist OBE, BPI Executive, emphasizes how this program of events will connect with Manchester's communities and leave a lasting cultural legacy.
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, highlights the significance of music, culture, and creativity in the city's DNA, and how hosting the BRIT Awards is a testament to Manchester's global reputation for its brilliant music scene.
Damaris Rex-Taylor, Managing Director of RCA/Sony Music, further emphasizes the respect and admiration for Manchester's leadership in arts and culture. The BRITs' curations, in collaboration with Manchester City Council and other partners, showcase the city's impressive breadth of creatives and its commitment to celebrating artists like Stanley Chow and Brian Cannon.
The Awards Night
The BRIT Awards 2026 will be broadcast live exclusively on ITV and ITVX from the Co-op Live on February 28th. Get ready for incredible performances by Harry Styles, Mark Ronson, Olivia Dean, ROSALĂŤA, and Wolf Alice, with more artists to be announced. Mark Ronson will be honored with the BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music, and Noel Gallagher for Songwriter of the Year.
Award-winning comedian and writer Jack Whitehall will return as the host, and each category winner will take home the iconic BRITs trophy, designed this year by internationally acclaimed Manchester-born designer Matthew Williamson, inspired by his roots in the city.
Leading the nominations are Olivia Dean and Lola Young with five nominations each, followed closely by Sam Fender with four nominations. Other British artists up for awards include Lily Allen, Calvin Harris, JADE, Ed Sheeran, Little Simz, PinkPantheress, and more. Even Hollywood gets a nod, with Cynthia Erivo and KPop Demon Hunter receiving nominations for their cultural moments in 2025.
Scottish singer/songwriter Jacob Alon is the winner of this year's BRITs Critics' Choice, joining Rose Gray and SIENNA SPIRO on the shortlist.
Mastercard continues its long-standing headline sponsorship of The BRITs, now in its 29th year. ITV remains the official broadcaster for the 34th year, ensuring the awards reach a global audience.
These partnerships are crucial in supporting The BRITs' vision and values, including fundraising for The BRIT Trust, which promotes education and wellbeing through music.
So, are you ready to join the BRITs in Manchester? Get your tickets, explore the city's cultural offerings, and be a part of this historic event!
For more information and to stay updated, visit brits.co.uk/manchester.
