Manchester is preparing to host its first Manchester Jewellery Week, a major new celebration of contemporary jewellery and British craft beginning on 10 September.

The festival, running from 10 to 16 September 2026, will bring together around 200 UK jewellers through more than 20 exhibitions and events across Manchester and the surrounding region. 

The programme aims to give greater visibility to regional artists and independent makers, with exhibitions exploring subjects including Manchester's music heritage and women's role in feminist history.

Among the featured projects is “24 Carat Party People,” drawing inspiration from Manchester's internationally recognised music culture, alongside “City of Suffragettes,” which showcases work by women artists connected to feminist history. 

The event will also include workshops, talks and open studios, giving visitors opportunities to meet makers and learn more about contemporary jewellery production.

Organisers hope the festival can strengthen Manchester's position within Britain's creative sector while creating new opportunities for artists facing rising material and living costs.

Manchester Jewellery Week represents a growing push to bring major arts attention beyond London and put regional British craft and independent artists in the spotlight.