Europe’s leading celebration of Black music and culture, the MOBO Awards, is set to arrive in Manchester for the first time as part of the MOBO Organisation’s landmark 30th anniversary. The historic ceremony will take place on Thursday, 26 March 202,6 at Co-op Live, the UK’s newest and largest live entertainment arena, promising a night defined by standout performances, meaningful tributes, and moments that shape culture. Fans can sign up now via mobo.com/awards to receive updates and gain priority access when tickets are released in December.
Since 2009, the MOBO Awards has taken its celebration beyond London, travelling across the UK to honour Black music and culture while uplifting regional talent and communities. From Liverpool and Leeds to Glasgow, Coventry, Sheffield, and Newcastle, MOBO has consistently transformed cities into cultural destinations. Now, as the organisation marks three decades of impact, Manchester, a city celebrated worldwide for its musical legacy, creative energy and cultural influence, becomes the next host.
Kanya King CBE, Founder and CEO of the MOBO Group, said the organisation’s 30-year journey represents far more than an awards ceremony. “For three decades, MOBO has been a cultural movement, one that has influenced creativity, shaped conversations, and created pathways for generations of talent. Reaching this milestone reminds us that celebrating culture isn’t just about honouring the past; it’s about shaping what comes next. Music has always been a powerful force for connection, inspiration, and change, and MOBO continues to stand as proof of that. Manchester’s legacy as a city driven by music, activism, and creative energy makes it the perfect place for MOBO to begin its next chapter.”
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, described the city’s selection as a source of pride. She said Manchester is honoured to host the Awards during such a significant year for MOBO, as it marks three decades of celebrating Black music and culture. “Manchester is a globally recognised city of diversity, creativity, and musical excellence, and MOBO aligns naturally with our identity. With our experience in delivering major international events, alongside partners across the city and at Co-op Live, we’re committed to supporting MOBO in delivering an unforgettable ceremony. Supporting emerging talent and grassroots music is central to our vision, and we’re excited to work with MOBO on the Fringe Festival, which will offer young creatives invaluable opportunities to learn, connect, and take part.”
Jessica Koravos, President of Oak View Group International and Director of Co-op Live, highlighted the significance of hosting the Awards at the venue. She said bringing MOBO to Manchester reflects Co-op Live’s commitment to celebrating diversity, excellence, and the city’s cultural influence. “We’re proud to provide a world-class, purpose-built venue that matches the scale, ambition and importance of MOBO’s 30th anniversary, and to help showcase Manchester on a global stage.”
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, called MOBO’s decision to mark its 30th anniversary in the region a major honour. “Greater Manchester has a deep and diverse musical heritage, and hosting the MOBO Awards here will resonate with communities across the region. We’re determined to give this celebration the platform it deserves and ensure it reflects everything that makes MOBO such a vital cultural institution.”
The MOBO Awards also confirmed the return of Prostate Cancer UK and got2b as official partners for the 2026 ceremony. Prostate Cancer UK continues as the official men’s health charity partner and sponsor of the Best Male Act category, using its platform to raise awareness of the increased risk Black men face and to challenge health inequalities across the UK. got2b returns as the official hairstyling partner, once again spotlighting individuality, self-expression, and creativity on one of music and culture’s biggest stages.
Keith Morgan, Associate Director of Black Health Equity at Prostate Cancer UK, said the organisation is proud to continue its partnership with MOBO in 2026. “The support we received from the MOBO community in Newcastle was extraordinary, and we’re excited to build on that momentum in Manchester. MOBO’s influence extends beyond music; it has consistently driven social change by amplifying Black voices and challenging inequality. Together, we’re pushing for vital improvements in health outcomes, particularly for Black men who face disproportionate risks. One in four Black men will develop prostate cancer, yet outdated systems mean too many are diagnosed too late. That has to change.”
Stefan Pichler, Managing Director UKI at Henkel, said got2b is delighted to return as Official Hairstyling Partner. “Celebrating MOBO’s 30th year alongside got2b’s 25th anniversary makes this partnership especially meaningful. MOBO embodies diversity, creativity, and self-expression values that sit at the heart of got2b.”
The most recent MOBO Awards took place in Newcastle in February 2025, hosted by Eddie Kadi and Indiyah Polack. Bashy took home Album of the Year and Best Hip-Hop Act, while Vybz Kartel received the MOBO Impact Award, and Dame Denise Lewis DBE was honoured with the MOBO Paving The Way Award. Central Cee secured his seventh MOBO win, claiming Best Male Act for the second year running and tying with Stormzy as the most decorated rappers in MOBO history. The ceremony featured high-energy performances spanning genres, with appearances from Vybz Kartel, Spice, Krept & Konan, Bashy, Odeal, Darkoo, Nova Twins, DJ AG, DJ ACE, and a host of special guests. Performance highlights are available on the MOBO Awards’ official YouTube channel.
For nearly 30 years, MOBO has been a global platform for celebrating and advancing Black music and culture, supporting genres ranging from Hip-Hop, R&B, and Grime to Jazz, Gospel, Reggae, African music,c and Electronic sounds. Since its first ceremony in 1996, the MOBO Awards has become a fixture on the UK cultural calendar and one of the most respected honours in music, recognising artists such as Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Stormzy, Wizkid, Davido, Rihanna, Janet Jackson, Little Simz, and RAYE.
Beyond music, MOBO has expanded its reach to celebrate excellence across film, television, and the arts, honouring figures including Idris Elba, Steve McQueen, Damson Idris, and Jacob Anderson. Through year-round initiatives such as MOBO UnSung, MOBO Help Musicians Amplified, and MOBOLISE, the MOBO Group continues to create access, opportunity,y and long-term impact for underrepresented talent. Together, these programmes reinforce MOBO’s enduring role as a cultural institution dedicated to creativity, equality, and social progress across the UK and beyond.
