Key Highlights
- BBC Radio 6 Music Festival 2026 to take place across Greater Manchester’s grassroots venues from March 25-28.
- The festival aims to shine a light on independent grassroots venues, featuring artists like Bloc Party, Courtney Barnett, and Kelly Lee Owens.
- New for 2026, the festival will include performances at Eccles Town Hall Ballroom and partnership events with local promoters FaT OuT and Homobloc.
- Artists such as Beth Ditto, Nick Grimshaw, Emily Pilbeam & Nathan Shepherd, and Steve Lamacq will host DJ sets throughout the event.
The Return of 6 Music Festival
BBC Radio 6 Music has announced its annual live music festival, set to take place from March 25-28 at independent venues across Greater Manchester. This year marks a significant evolution for the event as it focuses on celebrating grassroots spaces, which are often overlooked in the bustling world of mainstream music.
“Independent grassroot venues are vital to the UK’s music ecosystem,” said Samantha Moy, Head of BBC Radio 6 Music. “At 6 Music, we’re proud to support what they do. So, it makes sense for the next evolution of the 6 Music Festival to take place in these special spaces.”
Lineup Highlights and Venues
The lineup boasts a diverse array of artists, from established acts like Bloc Party and Courtney Barnett to up-and-coming stars such as Lynks and SILVERWINGKILLER. Each day will feature performances at iconic venues, including Band on the Wall and YES.
Notably, 2026 sees the addition of the Eccles Town Hall Ballroom to the festival, marking a new chapter for independent spaces in Greater Manchester’s vibrant music scene. Additionally, partnerships with local promoters FaT OuT and Homobloc promise exciting collaborations that will add depth to the event.
Partnerships and Community Engagement
The festival also includes club nights and DJ sets from well-known personalities like Beth Ditto & Nick Grimshaw, Emily Pilbeam & Nathan Shepherd, and Steve Lamacq. These events not only offer entertainment but also serve as a platform for engaging with the local community.
“These independent spaces are increasingly under threat but are vital for culture,” said Nick Grimshaw. “They provide a unique space where artists can grow, take risks, and truly flourish.”
Festival Schedule and Broadcasts
The festival will be broadcast across various BBC channels, providing listeners with the opportunity to enjoy performances even if they cannot attend in person. The 6 Music schedule includes live broadcasts from MediaCityUK and venues like Band on the Wall, ensuring a rich audio experience for fans.
“Greater Manchester’s music scene has always been driven by its grassroots venues,” said Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester. “It’s fantastic to see the BBC Radio 6 Music Festival celebrating those spaces and shining a spotlight on the creativity that continues to flourish in our city region.”
The festival lineup and broadcast schedule are detailed as follows:
- Wednesday 25 March: Band on the Wall from 7pm (BBC Introducing TTSSFU + Pyncher + Ellen Beth Adbi)
- Thursday 26 March: Band on the Wall (Kelly Lee Owens (DJ set) + Wesley Joseph), YES (Mandy, Indiana + SILVERWINGKILLER)
- Friday 27 March: Band on the Wall (Bloc Party + The Horrors), YES (Yard Act + Sorry)
- Saturday 28 March: YES (Courtney Barnett + Jacob Alon), Band on the Wall (Lynks + Tiberius b)
These performances and DJ sets will be available to watch on demand across BBC iPlayer and BBC Music’s YouTube channel, offering a lasting legacy of the festival.
The 6 Music Festival continues to play an essential role in supporting independent venues and nurturing new talent. As it celebrates its 2026 edition, the event remains a testament to the enduring spirit of grassroots music in Greater Manchester.
