2026 is already looking like an incredible year for music in the North West, and that’s just the acts that have been announced this side of the new year.
From multi-award winners from shores afar, through to the best current crop of UK artists and cult favourites, we anticipate that there will be more to come after the Christmas break, but announcements are still coming in thick and fast.
We’ve highlighted 33 shows coming to the area next year that have caught our interest, and we’ve included venues and dates to make marking that new 2026 calendar you’ll no doubt be getting in your stocking this year slightly easier.
The only question for yourselves then would be - how many of the shows will you possibly be attending so far?
19. Tame Impala
Kevin Parker's psychedelic rock project returns for a highly anticipated show. Known for their immersive visual effects and dreamy, synth-laden soundscapes, Tame Impala plays Co-op Live on May 8. 📌 Co-op Live, 1 Sports City Way, Etihad Campus, Manchester, M11 3DU | ANNA KURTH/AFP via Getty Images
20. Doja Cat
Global superstar and genre chameleon Doja Cat brings her colossal Ma Vie World Tour to the arena in support of her fifth album, Vie, on May 23. 📌 Co-op Live, 1 Sports City Way, Etihad Campus, Manchester, M11 3DU | AFP via Getty Images
21. Lily Allen
The acclaimed UK artist embarks on her first major tour in seven years, showcasing her new album 'West End Girl' alongside her iconic, sharp-witted hits at the AO Arena on June 19. 📌 AO Arena, Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR | Getty Images
22. Foo Fighters
The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers, led by Dave Grohl, return for their "Take Cover Tour," playing two colossal stadium shows. These are landmark UK events, featuring their catalogue of stadium-sized anthems on June 25 and 27. 📌 Anfield Stadium, Anfield Road, Liverpool, L4 0TH | Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Ima
23. My Chemical Romance
The legendary rock band performs two massive UK shows as part of their Long Live The Black Parade world tour, celebrating the iconic 2006 album in full. This is a rare chance to relive the band's groundbreaking era at Anfield on June 30. 📌 Anfield Stadium, Anfield Road, Liverpool, L4 0TH | Getty Images
24. Kings of Leon
The multi-award-winning US rock band brings their stadium-filling anthems to Manchester's newest arena. Their show on July 4 is set to be one of the biggest rock events of the summer. 📌 Co-op Live, 1 Sports City Way, Etihad Campus, Manchester, M11 3DU | Co-op Live