The Mercury Prize, celebrating the best of British and Irish music, is returning to Newcastle for a second consecutive year. The awards ceremony will once again be held at the Utilita Arena this autumn, on .
This marks a significant shift for the prestigious awards, as it’s only the second time in its 30-plus year history that the event has been held outside of London, since its inception in 1992. The decision underscores a commitment to broadening the reach of the awards and recognizing the vibrant music scene beyond the capital.
The Mercury Prize champions artistic achievement across a diverse range of contemporary music genres, focusing on the album format. An independent judging panel of music industry professionals curates the ‘12 Albums of the Year’ shortlist, recognizing both established artists and emerging talent.
Last year’s ceremony in Newcastle saw local artist Sam Fender take home the coveted prize for his album, “Seventeen Going Under.” Fender followed in the footsteps of previous winners including Ezra Collective, Little Simz, and Dave, solidifying the Mercury Prize’s reputation for recognizing groundbreaking and critically acclaimed music.
The economic impact of hosting the Mercury Prize in Newcastle last year was substantial. According to Dr. Jo Twist OBE, BPI CEO, and YolanDa Brown OBE DL, artist and BPI Chair, the event generated a £1.4 million boost to the region’s economy and cultural landscape. “Last year’s Mercury Prize and its brilliant performances and Fringe gave the region a £1.4 million economic and cultural boost and the whole of Newcastle came together to give the event a warm, big Geordie hug,” they stated.
Newcastle City Council is enthusiastic about welcoming the Mercury Prize back. Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, emphasized the significance of the event for the city. “The return of the Mercury Prize to Newcastle for a second consecutive year is a tremendous vote of confidence in our city and our thriving music scene,” she said. Kilgour further highlighted Newcastle’s cultural resurgence, stating that the city is “shaping its musical future” rather than simply resting on past achievements.
The council leader also pointed to the comprehensive fringe program that accompanied last year’s awards, which included a week-long series of events and talks. This broader engagement helped to showcase the region’s musical talent and attract visitors.
The Mercury Prize isn’t simply an awards show; it’s a platform for celebrating artistic innovation and fostering a deeper appreciation for music. The BPI, the trade body for the UK’s music industry, organizes the event in partnership with Newcastle City Council. The ceremony will be broadcast by BBC Music, extending its reach to a national audience.
The decision to return to Newcastle reflects a growing recognition of the importance of regional hubs in the UK’s music ecosystem. While London remains a major center for the industry, events like the Mercury Prize are helping to shine a spotlight on the creativity and talent found in other parts of the country.
The 2026 shortlist of 12 nominated albums has yet to be announced, but anticipation is already building. The Mercury Prize consistently introduces audiences to new and exciting artists, and this year’s nominees are sure to be no exception. The event promises a night of live performances from the shortlisted artists, culminating in the announcement of the overall winner.
The return of the Mercury Prize to Newcastle is more than just a logistical decision; it’s a statement about the evolving landscape of British music and the importance of celebrating artistic achievement in all its forms. It’s a testament to Newcastle’s growing reputation as a cultural destination and a vibrant hub for musical innovation.
