Audio
A proper old-school EDM party, done the Manc way.
Yes, you heard us right! Greater Manchester’s newest music festival, Outwards, is set to be an all-day, all-night celebration of all things electronic, charting the past, present, and future of the scene.
The inaugural Outwards Fest isn’t just another event aiming to book as many big names as possible. Instead, it seeks to span generations of ravers, dance music die-hards, and selectors alike, showcasing Manchester’s rich musical heritage.
In a city so deeply immersed in electronic music culture, it’s hard to escape its influence regardless of age. This festival aims to unite everyone under the electrifying umbrella of EDM.
Earlier this month, Outwards Fest released its first couple of teaser trailers, generating buzz among music lovers. Sign-ups for early access are live now, and although the festival promises a grassroots focus, it boasts some familiar faces among its lineup.
The live event has been meticulously crafted by Oliver Ryder, the stepson of Manc music legend Shaun Ryder, known as the Happy Mondays’ lead singer and frontman of Black Grape—one of the acts set to perform at the festival.
Hosted at The Progress Centre in Ardwick, Outwards Fest will span five outdoor stages in 2026, marking its much-anticipated debut in this spacious open-air venue after extensive planning.
While Justin Ryder and his Grape cohort are among the headliners, there are plenty of other captivating names on the bill. Expect a formidable lineup featuring veterans like Orbital and pioneers like A Certain Ratio, with whispers of a special guest yet to be revealed.
Fans can find the full lineup for the inaugural Outwards Festival listed below.
Look at this lineup!! We are made up to be part of this major Manchester happening event.
Tickets on sale // Thursday 26th February at 6pmhttps://t.co/gOPPaOUG9X
Outwards Festival pic.twitter.com/91v4aIQFMz— A Certain Ratio (@acrmcr) February 19, 2026
In a statement regarding this exciting new venture for Manchester’s cultural scene, festival director Olli said in a press release: “Electronic music has always been about more than nightlife. It’s about the music, the communities, the places, and the people who carry culture forward.”
Olli emphasized that “Outwards is an attempt to create a space where the past, present, and future of that EDM culture can exist together, here in Manchester, where so much of this story began—and where there is still so much to be written.”
He continued, “We hope it becomes a moment of reflection, inspiration, and connection that celebrates the full breadth of electronic music: open, inclusive, and shaped by many voices, while opening the door to what is still to come.” A sentiment that resonates deeply within the community.
To secure priority tickets when they become available, join the mailing list HERE. General admission will open at 10 am on Thursday, 26 February.
As for community-led festivals, another beloved event that keeps getting better while supporting the local music scene returns this summer, promising another thrilling edition.
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Featured Images — Publicity pictures/Black Grape (supplied)
