Manchester's Great Northern Warehouse has announced the return of its beloved free grassroots music festival, Mews Fest, for its sixth edition during the late May Bank Holiday. The 2026 event marks an exciting new chapter with the launch of the first-ever Mews Fest Fringe, expanding the festival's reach and programming.
Mews Fest Fringe Details
The Mews Fest Fringe will take place across the second May Bank Holiday weekend, starting on Friday, May 22. It will be hosted in various venues around Deansgate Mews, including The Lion's Den, Low Four Studios, and The Mews Bar. The festival will feature 40 bands performing on a mix of outdoor and intimate indoor stages. The full line-up will be announced in the coming weeks.
The inaugural Fringe will be held in a large unit within Great Northern, transformed into a vibrant hub celebrating music, art, and independent culture. Designed as a platform for Manchester's creative community, the space will welcome artists, designers, collectors, and creative entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their work while connecting with festival-goers. Entrance to both the Fringe and Mews Fest remains free of charge.
Stallholder Opportunities
Stallholder spaces are available at £25 per day or £45 for the full weekend (Saturday and Sunday, 1pm to 7pm). Mews Fest Fringe is now accepting applications from:
- Bands looking to sell merchandise
- Record sellers and vinyl collectors
- Vintage and clothing curators
- Arts and crafts makers
- Independent creatives of all kinds
For stallholder applications and further information, please apply via the official website.
Festival Growth and Community Impact
With its strong grassroots ethos and growing reputation, Mews Fest continues to champion local talent and independent culture. The addition of the Fringe event sets the stage for its most ambitious and inclusive edition to date, offering more opportunities for artists, vendors, and the community to engage with the festival.
