Entries are now open for the 2026 Mercury Prize, which returns to host city Newcastle for the second year, in partnership with Newcastle City Council.
The 12 Albums of the Year shortlist will be revealed on Thursday, July 30. The 2026 awards show, which will celebrate each shortlisted album, takes place at the Utilita Arena on Thursday, October 22.
Sam Fender won the 2025 Mercury Prize in front of a sold-out crowd. Other recent past winners include English Teacher, Ezra Collective, Little Simz, Dave, Wolf Alice, Young Fathers, and more.
2025 marked the first time the awards show was held outside of London. Alongside the main show at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle and the North East hosted a week-long fringe programme of events and talks, bringing an extra 8,000 visitors to the region.
The 2026 Mercury Prize is open for entries from today (April 22) and will close on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Record labels who have entered albums in previous years will have been sent more information ahead of the opening date. Newer record labels wishing to submit albums can email entries@mercuryprize.co.uk to receive more information.
Albums by British or Irish artists released between Saturday, August 30, 2025 and Friday, July 17, 2026 are eligible for entry, although submissions must be received by May 13, 2026.
The Mercury Prize shortlist is curated by an independent judging panel of music industry professionals. Each year, the shortlist recognises the best new British & Irish music across a range of genres.
As an independent arts prize, it champions the album format and acts as a snapshot of the year in music, as well as providing a major platform for up-and-coming artists.
The October awards show will feature live performances from many of the 12 shortlisted artists. Broadcast partner BBC Music will provide coverage of the event.
Almost 8,000 visitors travelled to Mercury Prize events across the region, generating a combined spend of £874,724 and adding an estimated £552,868 GVA to the regional economy.
FOLLOW 
