The Weeknd

The Weeknd Live at Etihad Stadium, Manchester

Get ready for an electrifying night as global superstar The Weeknd descends upon Manchester’s iconic Etihad Stadium on Friday, 12 June 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s an immersive journey into the sonic landscape of one of the most influential artists of our generation. Prepare for a spectacle of sound, vision, and pure, unadulterated performance that will leave you breathless. The Etihad Stadium will transform into a pulsating arena, a testament to the sheer scale of The Weeknd’s artistry and his dedicated global fanbase. This is your chance to witness a cultural phenomenon in the heart of Manchester, a night etched in memory for all who attend.

About The Weeknd

Abel Tesfaye, known to the world as The Weeknd, has redefined modern pop music with his unique blend of R&B, synth-pop, and haunting melodies. Emerging from Toronto’s underground music scene in the early 2010s with a series of critically acclaimed mixtapes, Tesfaye quickly garnered a cult following for his raw, confessional lyrics and atmospheric production. His debut studio album, Kiss Land (2013), further solidified his distinctive sound, but it was his sophomore album, Beauty Behind the Madness (2015), that catapulted him to global superstardom. This album spawned colossal hits like “Can’t Feel My Face,” a disco-infused anthem that dominated charts worldwide, and the melancholic ballad “Earned It,” featured on the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack.

The Weeknd’s artistic evolution continued with Starboy (2016), featuring the titular hit and the chart-topping “I Feel It Coming.” He consistently pushed sonic boundaries, embracing darker, more introspective themes while maintaining an irresistible mainstream appeal. His 2020 album, After Hours, was a critical and commercial triumph, lauded for its 80s synth-pop influences and featuring the record-breaking single “Blinding Lights,” which became the longest-charting song in the history of the Billboard Hot 100. His most recent project, Dawn FM (2022), further cemented his status as a visionary artist, exploring themes of life, death, and the afterlife with a captivating, concept-driven narrative. Throughout his career, The Weeknd has earned numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and has become renowned for his captivating stage presence and visually stunning live shows.

Venue Information

Etihad Stadium, located in Manchester, is a premier sporting and entertainment venue renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and capacity to host world-class events. As the home of Manchester City Football Club, it boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a central location, making it an accessible destination for fans across the country. The stadium offers excellent sightlines from all areas, ensuring an unforgettable viewing experience for every attendee. From its expansive seating bowl to its modern amenities, Etihad Stadium is equipped to deliver a seamless and spectacular night of live music. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a mesmerising and high-octane performance from The Weeknd that transcends the typical concert experience. His live shows are meticulously crafted spectacles, blending cutting-edge visual production with his undeniable vocal prowess and stage charisma. Expect a setlist that masterfully navigates his extensive discography, seamlessly weaving together chart-topping anthems with fan-favourite deep cuts. Audiences can anticipate hearing blistering renditions of iconic hits like “Blinding Lights,” “Starboy,” “Can’t Feel My Face,” and “The Hills.” The show will likely feature emotionally resonant performances of ballads such as “Earned It” and “Call Out My Name,” showcasing the full spectrum of his artistic capabilities.

Beyond the music, The Weeknd’s performances are renowned for their theatricality. Expect a dynamic stage setup, often featuring elaborate lighting designs, striking visual projections, and perhaps even a narrative element that complements the themes of his albums. His signature artistic persona, often a blend of enigmatic cool and raw vulnerability, is fully on display, drawing the audience into his meticulously crafted sonic worlds. The energy on stage is palpable, with The Weeknd delivering a commanding presence that captivates thousands. The overall duration of the show is expected to be around two to two-and-a-half hours, including any potential encore performances, ensuring a full and satisfying evening of entertainment. This is not just a concert; it’s a carefully curated artistic statement designed to leave a lasting impression.

FAQs

Q1: Will The Weeknd be performing songs from his new album, Dawn FM? Given the success and conceptual nature of Dawn FM, it is highly probable that The Weeknd will incorporate material from this album into his setlist. Audiences can expect to hear tracks that reflect the album’s exploration of life, death, and the afterlife, delivered with his signature captivating style.

Q2: What is the likely running time of The Weeknd’s concert? While exact timings can vary, a typical major concert of this scale, featuring an artist of The Weeknd’s calibre, usually lasts between two to two-and-a-half hours. This includes the main set and any potential encore performances.

Q3: Can I expect a visually spectacular show from The Weeknd? Absolutely. The Weeknd is renowned for his visually stunning live performances. His concerts are characterised by sophisticated lighting designs, impressive stage sets, and compelling visual projections that enhance the overall immersive experience and complement the themes of his music.

Q4: Will there be any special guests performing with The Weeknd? While special guests can sometimes be a surprise element in large concerts, there is no confirmed information regarding support acts or surprise performers for this event at this stage. Attendees should focus on experiencing The Weeknd’s incredible solo performance.

Q5: What kind of atmosphere should I expect at The Weeknd’s concert at Etihad Stadium? The atmosphere is expected to be electric and highly energetic. The Weeknd commands a massive global fanbase, and his concerts are known for creating a shared sense of euphoria and excitement. Be prepared for a night of singalongs, dancing, and a truly unforgettable collective experience.

Q6: Is it possible to get merchandise at the Etihad Stadium on the night? Yes, it is standard practice for large concerts to have official merchandise stalls available within the venue. You can expect a range of items, from t-shirts and hoodies to posters and accessories, allowing you to take a piece of the event home with you.