The finalists for the 2026 Manchester Culture Awards have been announced ahead of this weekend’s prestigious ceremony, taking place on Saturday 14 November.
Now in its ninth year, the awards celebrate the individuals, organisations and events helping to shape Manchester’s cultural and creative scene. More than 400 nominations were received across 11 categories, recognising achievements spanning arts, performance, exhibitions, education, equality, wellbeing and environmental action. New for this year is the Outstanding Storytelling award, celebrating compelling stories told through film, digital media, words and other creative formats.
This year’s finalists include Manchester-based venues, cultural organisations and independent creatives, with names such as Factory International, HOME, Manchester Art Gallery, The Whitworth and Royal Exchange Theatre among those shortlisted. The winners will be revealed at Saturday’s ceremony, hosted by Manchester-based composer, DJ and broadcaster AFRODEUTSCHE. The annual awards, launched by Manchester City Council in 2018, highlight the talent and creativity that continue to strengthen the city’s reputation as a leading cultural destination.
