Co‑op Live in Manchester is the UK’s largest indoor arena , opened in May 2024 on the Etihad Campus next to the City of Manchester Stadium. It holds around 23,500 people (seated plus standing) and is designed as a fully electric, low‑waste venue , aiming to be one of Europe’s most sustainable arenas.

What’s on now (2026 highlights)

A snapshot of upcoming events in 2026 shows a mix of music, comedy, family shows, and awards:

  • Young Voices choir concerts – 5–13 February 2026, billed as the world’s largest children’s choir event.
  • MOBO Awards 2026 – 26 March 2026, the first time the ceremony comes to Manchester.
  • 5 Seconds of Summer – Bite the Apple Upgrade – 4 April 2026.
  • The Prodigy – 16 April 2026, dedicated to late frontman Keith Flint.
  • Olivia Dean – 25–26 April 2026.
  • NE‑YO + Akon – 1–6 May 2026 (multiple nights).
  • Westlife – 25th‑anniversary tour – 23–25 October 2026.
  • Hits Radio Live – 21 November 2026, a big‑name pop‑showcase night.

Quick‑view 2026 events table

Date range (2026)| Event / Artist| Type
---|---|---
5–13 Feb| Young Voices choir| Family / choir
26 Mar| MOBO Awards| Awards / live music
4 Apr| 5 Seconds of Summer| Pop‑rock concert
16 Apr| The Prodigy| Electronic / rock
25–26 Apr| Olivia Dean| Soul‑pop
1–6 May| NE‑YO + Akon| R&B / pop
23–25 Oct| Westlife| Pop / nostalgia
21 Nov| Hits Radio Live| Pop‑showcase

Getting there and practical info

Co‑op Live sits on the Etihad Campus , very close to Manchester City’s stadium and the Etihad Campus tram stop , which is linked to the city‑centre Metrolink network every 7–8 minutes. The venue has 32 bars and food outlets , plus lounges and club‑style spaces, and there are plenty of nearby hotels and restaurants if you’re making a night of it.

Forum buzz and “latest news” vibe

On Manchester‑focused forums like r/manchester , Co‑op Live has become a constant topic , with lots of threads about walking routes, safety, parking, and “first‑time‑goer” advice. Users often complain that the same questions get repeated, which shows how popular and new the arena still feels in local conversation.

If you tell me which act or date you’re eyeing, I can pull out a tailored “what to expect” rundown (doors, transport, and typical crowd vibe).