Newcastle to host Mercury Prize 2026 Fringe events

A series of over 30 events, titled Mercury Prize 2026 Fringe, has been announced to take place across Newcastle leading up to the Mercury Prize ceremony. The winner is scheduled to be revealed on October 22 at the Utilita Arena.

The 2026 shortlist features artists including Paul McCartney, JADE, Nia Archives, Dave, Suede, and the War Child Help(2) compilation. The event returns to Newcastle following Sam Fender’s win last year for his album ‘People Watching’.

Key scheduled activities include a screening of Sam Fender’s ‘Live At London Stadium’ concert film at Tyneside Cinema on October 17, a performance by DJ Tommy Caulker at Public House HiFi, and acoustic sets at Grainger Market. Additionally, BBC Introducing will host a special live session at the Glasshouse International Center For Music on October 19, and the band Knats will hold a listening party at the John Peel Centre.