The MOBOs are Heading to Manchester

The MOBOs have today announced that the latest iteration of the awards ceremony will take place on 26 March 2026, at Co-Op Live in Manchester. They join the BRIT Awards in heading to the north-west, in what is shaping up to be a very big year for the city.

Heading to Manchester for the very first time, as part of the MOBO Organisation’s 30th anniversary celebrations, the night of the MOBOs promises to be unforgettable, with live performances, powerful tributes and more.  

Since 2009, the MOBO Awards has taken 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. 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.

Ahead of the ceremony, MOBO is also collaborating with Manchester City Council to deliver the MOBO FringeFestival, 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.  

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.”

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “For MOBO to choose to host its 30^th 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.” 

With awards at the 2025 ceremony given to Bashy (twice), Odeal (twice), Central Cee, Vybz Kartel and more, speculation is already underway for who will be taking home prizes in Manchester come March 2026.

You can register now at mobo.com/awards for updates and priority access when tickets go on sale in December.