Manchester indie pop favourites Pale Waves are set to headline a brand-new open-air live music event coming to the city this summer.

The band will take centre stage at KISS ME IN MANCHESTER on Friday 11 September 2026, as part of Plus Minus Equals: The Block, a new series of events aiming to create a different kind of live music experience in Manchester.

Taking place at un.titled studios, the event will transform the venue’s car park into a creative space, bringing together live performances, independent brands, food, DJs and Manchester’s wider music community.

Pale Waves lead new Manchester music event

Formed in Manchester, Pale Waves have become one of the UK’s most recognisable alternative pop bands, building a loyal following with their mix of emotional songwriting, huge pop hooks and distinctive visual style.

Fronted by Heather Baron-Gracie, alongside Ciara Doran and Charlie Wood, the group have grown from local favourites into an internationally successful act, performing across the UK, Europe and beyond.

The band will arrive in Manchester following major touring moments, including European arena shows with Louis Tomlinson and appearances at festivals including BludFest.

With new music expected later this year, the headline show will mark another major moment for the band as they enter a new chapter of their career.

A lineup celebrating Manchester’s next generation of artists

Alongside Pale Waves, the event will feature a lineup of female and gender diverse-fronted acts including Crawlers, Nxdia and HotWax, with further artists set to be announced.

Irish-English rock band Crawlers have built a strong following following the success of tracks including Come Over, while alt-pop artist Nxdia has gained attention with songs including Ouch and She Likes A Boy.

South Coast alternative rock trio HotWax will also bring their energetic live show to Manchester, adding to a bill designed to highlight emerging talent alongside established names.

The Block is designed differently from a traditional festival, with each event created alongside its headline artist.

Rather than simply building a lineup around a name, each show is curated with the headliner’s influences, inspirations and musical communities in mind.

The event will run from the afternoon into the evening, with audiences able to enjoy food, independent brands, creative collectives, live performances and DJ sets.

Set within one of Manchester’s creative spaces, The Block aims to combine high-quality production with the city’s grassroots music culture.

Manchester artists given chance to join Pale Waves lineup

Ahead of the event, Pale Waves and The Block are also offering one Greater Manchester-based emerging artist the chance to perform in front of 3,000 fans.

The chosen artist will join the lineup alongside Pale Waves, with the band personally selecting the winning act.

The successful performer will also receive a £1,000 performance fee.

Heather Baron-Gracie from Pale Waves said:

“We know how tough it can be to get those early breaks as a young band, and how much they can mean. 

“As a band proudly formed in the city, we want to play our part in lending a hand to some of the amazing young talent in Manchester today.

“We also know how hard it can be financially for young artists, so we’re making sure that the fee for whoever we choose means they don’t have to stress about being here, and their talent and performance is properly valued.”

Tickets are available here.

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