The Mercury Prize has announced the dates for its 2025 event, also revealing that it will take place in Newcastle. This will be the first time the prestigious awards show has been held outside of London.

The shortlist of the 12 contending albums will be revealed on September 10, and the award show itself will be held on October 16 at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, the same venue that held the MOBO awards in February.

This year’s new location comes in collaboration with the BPI (British Phonographic Industry), Newcastle City Council, The North East Combined Authority and Generator, an arts organisation in the North East.

To honour the relocation of the renowned ceremony to Newcastle, Generator will be organising a week-long regional fringe programme in the days leading up to the award. This programme will celebrate the diverse range of talent within the North East, and provide opportunities for creatives.

BPI Chief Executive Dr Jo Twist shared her excitement for the upcoming event: “We are delighted to announce this groundbreaking moment for the Mercury Prize. We and our label community are committed to celebrating and providing the opportunity to showcase talent from all over the UK.

“Previous Mercury Prize winners and Album of the Year artists have consistently demonstrated this breadth of talent that is uniquely homegrown. Newcastle-upon-Tyne is a true music city and we are excited to work with our partners at The City of Newcastle & North East Combined Authority to deliver this inaugural moment and a memorable Mercury Prize 2025.”

Newcastle Mayor Kim McGuinness also said she’s looking forward to the festivities: “Bringing the Mercury Prize to the North East is yet another fantastic accolade that builds on our proud cultural history and strengthens our reputation as a region of culture.

“The success of artists like Sam Fender shows what is possible for young musicians in our region and hosting the Mercury Prize in the North East gives us the opportunity to showcase our home-grown talent. Our region’s cultural offer is strong, and steeped in the pride and creativity of our people, places and industrial heritage. This event is testament to that and will help our region stand tall on the national and international stage.”

The Mercury Prize is a highly regarded award for any British musician. Celebrating the best in new British and Irish music since 1992, the annual award covers a wide range of genres, with artists from Primal Scream to Skepta taking home the coveted prize. It focuses on the album format – shortlisting a selection of important, iconic releases from the year.

Last year, it was Leeds indie band English Teacher that took home the prestigious prize, beating out other nominated names like Charli XCX, Barry Can’t Swim and Nia Archives.

The Mercury Prize 20205 nominees will be confirmed at a later date, and tickets to the awards ceremony are available here.