2 min readManchester will take centre stage this spring as the MOBO Awards return on 26 March 2026, bringing a major celebration of Black music and culture to the city. Marking its 30th anniversary, the 2026 ceremony will be held at Co‑op Live, the UK’s newest and largest indoor arena.
Eve and Eddie Kadi to Host the 2026 Ceremony
This year’s event will be hosted by two internationally recognised talents:
- Global hip‑hop icon Eve, known for her award‑winning career spanning music, film and television.
- Acclaimed comedian and broadcaster Eddie Kadi, returning for a second year as MOBO host.
Both bring extensive experience and cultural influence to what promises to be one of the biggest MOBO ceremonies to date.
First Wave of Performers Announced
The MOBO Awards have revealed the first artists set to perform, with a line‑up highlighting some of the most exciting women in contemporary music:
- Olivia Dean, a standout British artist with multiple nominations this year.
- FLO, the award‑winning R&B trio who continue to rise on the global stage.
- Tiwa Savage, one of Afrobeats’ most influential and internationally acclaimed figures.
Further performers and special honourees will be announced in the coming weeks.
A Celebration Across the City
Ahead of the ceremony, Manchester will host the MOBO Fringe Festival, delivered in partnership with Manchester City Council. The week‑long programme will feature industry panels, creative workshops, talent showcases and performances, bringing music and culture-focused activity to various locations across the city.
The festival aims to support emerging talent, highlight Manchester’s creative communities and build excitement leading up to awards night.
About the MOBO Awards
Since 1996, the MOBO Awards have championed talent within Hip-Hop, R&B, Soul, Grime, Gospel, Afrobeats, Jazz, Electronic and more. Over the past 30 years, the Awards have celebrated some of the world’s most influential artists and provided a platform for new voices within Black music and culture.
The 2026 ceremony continues this legacy, bringing a major moment in British culture to Manchester.
Event Information
Date: 26 March 2026
Location: Co‑op Live, Manchester
Tickets: Available now at mobo.com/tickets
For close to 30 years, the MOBO Awards has remained a significant cultural event in the British music industry, celebrating excellence in Black music and culture. Its enduring legacy as the premiere outlet for recognising and honouring the artistic achievement of exceptional British and…
