The Courteeners

The Courteeners Live at Wythenshawe Park, Manchester

Get ready for an unforgettable night as Manchester’s very own The Courteeners return to their roots for a colossal homecoming show at Wythenshawe Park on Saturday, 29 August 2026. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a celebration of a band that has soundtracked a generation of Mancunians and beyond, performing on a scale befitting their monumental status. Imagine the roar of thousands singing along to anthems under the open sky, the palpable energy of a band at the absolute peak of their powers, delivering a show that will cement itself in the city’s rich musical history. Wythenshawe Park, a vast and vibrant green space, provides the perfect, epic backdrop for Liam Fray and co. to deliver a performance that promises to be a defining moment of summer 2026. This is more than a concert; it’s a pilgrimage for fans, a chance to experience The Courteeners in their spiritual element, delivering a setlist packed with their most beloved tracks and showcasing the raw, electric live energy that has earned them a fiercely loyal following.

About The Courteeners

Formed in Middleton, Greater Manchester, in 2006, The Courteeners have ascended from local heroes to one of the UK’s most cherished and enduring indie-rock bands. Their journey began with a raw, unpolished sound that quickly resonated with a generation seeking anthemic choruses and relatable lyrics. Led by the charismatic Liam Fray, the band – rounded out by guitarist Daniel “Conan” Moores, bassist Mark Crooks, and drummer Michael Campbell – quickly garnered a reputation for their electrifying live performances and a string of singles that captured the zeitgeist. Their debut album, St. Jude, released in 2008, exploded onto the scene, featuring seminal tracks like “Cavorting,” “You Know It Makes Sense,” and the anthemic “Not Nineteen Forever,” a song that has become synonymous with youthful exuberance and defiant optimism.

Subsequent releases, including Falcon (2010), Anna (2013), and Mapping the Rendezvous (2016), saw the band mature and experiment, seamlessly blending their signature indie-rock sound with electronic flourishes and more introspective songwriting. Yet, they never strayed from the core elements that endeared them to their fanbase: Fray’s distinctive Mancunian vocal delivery, the driving guitar riffs, and the singalong choruses that are designed for stadium-sized crowds. Hits like “The 1975” (no relation to the band), “Small Than You,” “Louder,” and “Finest Hour” have become staples of their live shows, drawing massive crowds to festivals and arenas across the country. Their album More Than Blood (2023) proved they are still at the top of their game, showcasing a renewed energy and lyrical depth. The Courteeners’ enduring appeal lies in their authenticity, their unwavering commitment to their craft, and their ability to create music that speaks directly to the hearts of their fans, fostering a connection that feels less like celebrity adoration and more like a shared experience.

Venue Information

Wythenshawe Park is Manchester’s largest public park, offering a sprawling expanse of greenery and a picturesque setting for large-scale outdoor events. This iconic location provides an incredible natural amphitheatre, promising an immersive and atmospheric experience for all attendees. The park’s vast open spaces are ideal for hosting a major concert of this magnitude, ensuring ample room for the tens of thousands of fans expected to gather for this special event. Its accessible location within the city makes it a convenient destination for concert-goers from Manchester and beyond. For complete venue details, including information on accessibility, transport links, and on-site facilities, please refer to our dedicated venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a headline performance from The Courteeners that will undoubtedly be etched into your memory. Liam Fray and the band are renowned for their electrifying stage presence, a raw energy that transcends the stage and ignites the crowd. Expect a setlist that is a masterclass in their discography, expertly curated to deliver maximum impact. From the thunderous opening chords of their biggest anthems to the more poignant, introspective moments, they will take you on a journey through their storied career.

Anticipate a journey through their most beloved hits. You can be sure to hear the stadium-filling choruses of “Not Nineteen Forever,” the defiant spirit of “Small Words Than You,” and the anthemic pull of “The 1975” reverberating through Wythenshawe Park. They will undoubtedly delve into tracks from their critically acclaimed albums, ensuring a balanced and exhilarating set that caters to both long-time devotees and newer fans. Expect a generous helping of fan favourites, potentially including “Cavorting,” “Louder,” and “Finest Hour,” all delivered with the signature intensity that defines a Courteeners live show.

The performance style of The Courteeners is characterized by an unbridled passion and an almost tangible connection with their audience. Liam Fray is a magnetic frontman, commanding the stage with his distinctive lyrical prowess and his ability to rally the crowd into a unified chorus. The interplay between the band members is seamless, a testament to years of touring and performing together. Expect powerful guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and a sonic landscape that is both expansive and intimate. The production will undoubtedly be spectacular, designed to enhance the grandeur of the open-air setting while maintaining the raw intimacy that the band is known for. While the exact duration will be confirmed closer to the date, a headline set of this calibre typically runs for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, packed with energy and unforgettable musical moments. This is not a show to be passively observed; it’s an event to be experienced, to be sung back with every ounce of your being.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Courteeners be playing songs from their new album, More Than Blood, as well as older hits? A1: Absolutely! The Courteeners are renowned for crafting setlists that showcase their evolution as a band. You can expect a comprehensive selection of their most beloved anthems from across their career, alongside powerful tracks from their latest album, More Than Blood. This ensures a journey through their entire musical story, delighting long-time fans and introducing newer audiences to their expansive sound.

Q2: What is Liam Fray’s typical performance style like during a live set? A2: Liam Fray is a charismatic and energetic frontman who is deeply connected to his audience. He has a reputation for pouring his heart and soul into every performance, often engaging directly with the crowd through his lyrics and stage presence. Expect him to deliver his signature vocals with passion and to rally the masses with his unmistakable Mancunian charm.

Q3: Can I expect any special guests to join The Courteeners on stage? A3: While The Courteeners are known for their strong collaborative spirit, the focus of their headline shows is typically on their core members delivering an unforgettable performance. Any potential guest appearances are usually kept as a surprise, so keep an open mind, but be prepared for an incredible show driven by the band themselves.

Q4: Will there be any merchandise available for purchase at the event? A4: Yes, a wide range of official Courteeners merchandise, including band t-shirts, hoodies, vinyl, and other exclusive items, will be available for purchase at dedicated stalls throughout the Wythenshawe Park site. It’s always advisable to arrive early if you have specific items in mind, as popular items can sell out quickly.

Q5: How long is The Courteeners’ typical set duration for a headline show of this size? A5: For a headline concert of this magnitude, you can expect The Courteeners to play for approximately 90 minutes to two hours. This allows ample time for them to deliver a comprehensive setlist packed with their biggest hits and fan favourites, ensuring a full and exhilarating experience.

Q6: Are there any specific songs that are considered “must-hear” moments in a Courteeners set? A6: While every song holds significance for their dedicated fanbase, anthems like “Not Nineteen Forever,” “Small Words Than You,” “The 1975,” and “Cavorting” are consistently met with a deafening roar and singalongs from thousands of voices. These tracks represent the raw energy and emotional core of The Courteeners’ live experience.