Damnation's back, and it's taking over Manchester's BEC Arena for a full two-day assault on 7th and 8th November. If you're after serious heavy music in a proper venue with a crowd that actually knows what they're doing, this is it.
🎟️Get tickets for Damnation 2026 →What's on
Damnation Festival returns to Manchester for 2026, running across Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th November at the BEC Arena. The festival kicks off at 11 a.m. both days, giving you a proper two-day immersion in the heavy music underground. Lineups and full schedules are still being confirmed, but expect the curated mix of metal, punk, hardcore and alternative acts that made Damnation essential in the first place.
The vibe
Damnation isn't the mainstream festival circuit. It's sweaty, it's loud, and it's full of people who genuinely care about the music. The BEC Arena is a proper venue—intimate enough to feel close to the stage, but scaled to handle serious crowds. Two days means you're not rushing; you can actually dig into the bill and discover something new.
Getting tickets
Tickets are on sale now. Damnation typically offers tiered pricing depending on how far in advance you book, so early birds usually get the best rate. Day tickets and weekend passes are normally available. Check the usual festival ticket platforms for current pricing and availability.
Where to stay
Manchester's got plenty of accommodation near the BEC Arena, from budget chains to independent options. We've picked a selection of hotels within easy reach of the venue below so you can rest up between sets.
Getting there
Manchester Piccadilly is the main rail hub—direct services from London, Birmingham, Leeds and most major UK cities. The BEC Arena is about a mile south of Piccadilly, accessible by tram or taxi. Driving? There's parking at the venue itself, or use the city's park-and-ride schemes if you're coming from outside the region.
🧳 Travel essentials
🏨 Where to stay nearby
🥂 Premium stays 5-star
💷 Budget-friendly under £120/nt
📍 The venue
BEC Arena
Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Longbridge Road, Trafford Park
🎟️ Top things to do in Manchester
Skip the queues with pre-booked tickets. Compare prices across GetYourGuide and Tiqets — both offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
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