BRIT Awards announces move to Manchester for first ceremony outside of London in 48 years
The annual awards event will hold the first of three planned ceremonies at the Co-op Live on February 28, 2026
The BRIT Awards will hold its first ceremony outside of London in its 48-year history next year, as it gears up for a move to Manchester, the British Phonographic Institute (BPI) has announced.
The annual awards ceremony, celebrating the best in British music, will hold its next three ceremonies at the Co-Op Live Arena — with the first set to take place on February 28, 2026.
“The BRIT Awards have helped to tell the story of British music in all its brilliant diversity, capturing some of its most memorable moments, and this groundbreaking move to Manchester will only add to its rich legacy," says BPI CEO Dr Jo Twist.
Read this next: Here are the 2025 BRIT Awards winners
"This exciting new chapter celebrates not only the city’s exceptional musical heritage and its status as a powerhouse of British creativity, but the great depth of artistic energy and potential that exists all across the UK," he continues. "I feel sure it will fire the imagination of fans, artists and the wider music community alike, and we look forward to sharing the experience with them.”
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham described the ceremony's move from London to his city as a "massive coup," adding in a statement: "After 48 years, it is great that this prestigious global event is about to arrive in the UK capital of music and culture."
"Greater Manchester has an unparalleled music heritage known around the world, and this summer will play host to some of the biggest gigs on the planet. That was only made possible by our strong commitment to new talent and giving emerging artists the opportunities to make their name," he continues.
Read this next: "Not an idealised picture of Britain": Block9 designer on gritty BRITs stage design"We thank our friends at the BPI for choosing Manchester and we will pull out all the stops to show they made the right decision. Celebrating the BRIT Awards right here in the home of 24 hour party people is the next chapter in its story and you can be sure that we will help them do it in style.”
2025's ceremony took place at London's O2 Arena in Wembley, check out all the winners here.
Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, follow her on Twitter