We can't wait to show Newcastle off to the music world again as the Mercury Prize returns in 2026
The key names behind bringing the Mercury Prize back to Newcastle have spoken of their excitement to see the event return.
Newcastle’s Utilita Arena hosted the Mercury Music Prize late last year, and it was announced on Wednesday, February 18 that the event will return for 2026.
The last edition of the ceremony, which celebrates the best albums by British and Irish acts, was won by Sam Fender in front of a local crowd for the North Tyneside-born star.
It was the first time he won the prize as his third album Poeple Watching beat releases from the likes of Wolf Alice, Pulp and FKA Twigs.
Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “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.
“Newcastle is at the heart of a bold cultural resurgence, and hosting this prestigious national event once again underlines both the strength of our music industry and the growing national recognition of our cultural ambitions.
“It’s a powerful endorsement of the talent, creativity and momentum that define our city.
“Last year, we showcased exactly what Newcastle can deliver on a major stage, and we’ve continued to build on that momentum. This follows Warner Music’s recent announcement of a three-year partnership with Generator, which will create even more long-term opportunities.
“It also supports our plans to establish Newcastle and Gateshead as a recognised Music City.
“And with more significant events in the pipeline including a firm commitment to build our own programme, Newcastle will soon be seen as one of the UK’s key cultural hubs.
“While many cities are celebrated for their musical past, Newcastle is shaping its musical future. The return of the Mercury Prize reinforces our reputation as a driving force for emerging talent, industry investment and world-class events — and we are incredibly proud to welcome it back.”
Mick Ross, CEO at Generator, added: “The return of the Mercury Prize to Newcastle confirms that last year wasn’t a one-off - it was a shift in the centre of gravity of British music.
“When Mercury left London, it proved the North has the talent, infrastructure and ambition to lead at the highest level. The BRITs in Manchester followed.
“The momentum is real. For more than 35 years, Generator has championed Northern talent, lobbied for investment and built the partnerships that moments like this depend on.
“Through Generator's Mercury Fringe programme, we turned a global awards show into a region-wide platform - creating real opportunities and lasting impact.
“This year, we’re going further - expanding access, opening more pathways and ensuring Northern artists don’t just take part, but set the agenda.”
Last year saw a series of fringe events take place across the North East, welcoming around 8,000 visitors to venues across Tyne and Wear.
An estimated £1.4 million was generated for the local economy by Tyneside hosing the event last year.