What’s happening at the AO Arena: exciting events in 2024 and beyond
- Written by Thom Bamford
- Last updated 4 weeks ago
- City of Manchester, Events, Featured, Music
The AO Arena has always been at the heart of Manchester’s incredible entertainment scene since it opened in 1995.
As one of the busiest venues in the world, the AO Arena has long been a go-to destination for unforgettable events – and this year, it has taken a huge leap forward.
The arena has just announced a partnership with AXS, a global leader in ticketing. With this collaboration, over one million visitors each year will now benefit from a smoother, more secure ticket purchasing and resale experience, thanks to AXS’s cutting-edge technology.
With world-class facilities, a lineup of top-tier events, and this seamless blend of luxury and technology, the AO Arena is set to remain Europe’s premier entertainment venue.
Since opening, it has hosted legendary performances from U2, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, and Manchester’s very own Take That, as well as landmark sporting events like Olympic warm-up games and international boxing matches featuring icons like Mike Tyson and Ricky Hatton. The list is endless.
Now, following a stunning £50 million redevelopment, the AO Arena is stepping into a new era of luxury and convenience. If you want to push the boat out for an out-of-this-world experience, you can book tickets for The Mezz—Manchester’s newest premium bar and restaurant.
Here, you can enjoy an elevated dining experience before settling into the best seats in the house. Whether you’re treating yourself or entertaining clients, The Mezz guarantees a VIP experience from the moment you arrive until the final encore.
Get ready to experience Manchester’s top events at this newly revamped cultural icon.
What’s on at the AO Arena in 2024 and beyond?
England vs Jamaica – Vitality Netball Horizon Series
This international test series brings the highly anticipated clash between England’s Vitality Roses and Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls to Manchester. As part of the newly formed Vitality Netball Horizon Series, this four-year fixture aims to strengthen the rivalry between these two netball powerhouses. Fans can expect high-octane action, as both teams will be looking to assert dominance, with England coming off a historic silver medal win at the Netball World Cup. With two matches taking place at the AO Arena, netball fans are in for a treat as the best players from both sides battle it out on the court.
- When: Saturday 16 November 2024, 4:00 PM
Sunday 17 November 2024, 2:00 PM
Disney On Ice Presents Road Trip Adventures
Get ready for a magical journey as Disney On Ice returns with Road Trip Adventures. This family-friendly ice-skating spectacle whisks audiences away to iconic Disney destinations, featuring beloved characters from Toy Story, The Lion King, Aladdin, Frozen, and more. With stunning acrobatics, up-close character interactions, and thrilling new storylines, this is a multi-generational experience not to be missed. From the rooftops of London with Mary Poppins to the African savannah with Simba, this immersive show will create lifelong memories for Disney fans of all ages.
- When: Wednesday 11 December 2024, 6:30 PM
Thursday 12 December 2024, 6:30 PM
Friday 13 December 2024, 4:00 PM & 8:00 PM
Saturday 14 December 2024, 2:30 PM & 6:30 PM
Sunday 15 December 2024, 10:30 AM & 2:30 PM
Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular
The world’s favourite musical, Les Misérables, returns in a special Arena Spectacular format that promises to blow audiences away with its sheer scale and grandeur. Featuring an all-star cast including Alfie Boe, Killian Donnelly, and Michael Ball, this re-imagined production will bring the timeless story of redemption, revolution, and love to life with a company of over 110 performers. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the musical, this epic retelling of Victor Hugo’s classic will have you singing along to hits like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?” long after the curtain falls.
- When: Thursday 26 December 2024, 6:30 PM
Friday 27 December 2024 (Matinee) 1:00 PM & (Evening) 6:30 PM
Saturday 28 December 2024 (Matinee) 1:00 PM & (Evening) 6:30 PM
Sunday 29 December 2024, 12:00 PM
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live – Glow-N-Fire
Buckle up for an adrenaline-filled weekend as Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire brings the ultimate monster truck experience to Manchester! This fiery new theme adds an extra layer of excitement to the family-friendly show, featuring crowd-favourite trucks like Mega Wrex™, Bigfoot®, and Bone Shaker™. With jaw-dropping stunts, freestyle motocross action, and a special Power Smashers Pre-Show Party where fans can get up close to these enormous machines, this event is perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to see the world’s most famous monster trucks in action!
- When: Saturday 18 January 2025, 11:30 AM & 6:30 PM
Sunday 19 January 2025, 11:30 AM & 6:30 PM
Strictly Come Dancing Live
Get ready to shine! The Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour is returning to the AO Arena, and it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable night of glitz, glamour, and thrilling performances. This year, the tour is turning up the sparkle with an incredible lineup, featuring first-time tour judge Motsi Mabuse, alongside the iconic Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and the ever-entertaining Craig Revel Horwood. Hosting this fabulous event is the dynamic Janette Manrara, who’s sure to keep the crowd buzzing with excitement.
Expect jaw-dropping dance routines, stunning costumes, and electrifying staging that bring the magic of Strictly to life. It’s the perfect evening for fans of all ages, so bring the family and get ready for an incredible night of entertainment.
Each performance will also feature a British Sign Language interpreter, displayed on two large screens, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
Don’t miss out—book your tickets now and prepare to be swept away by the sparkle and excitement of Strictly Come Dancing Live!
- When: Saturday, 1st February 2025 – 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM
- Sunday, 2nd February 2025 – 1:30 PM & 6:30 PM
James Blunt – Back to Bedlam 20th Anniversary Tour
Celebrating 20 years since the release of his iconic album Back to Bedlam, James Blunt is hitting the road for a special anniversary tour. Fans can expect to hear the global smash hit “You’re Beautiful” alongside other timeless tracks like “Goodbye My Lover,” as Blunt performs the album in its entirety. Joining him on the tour is special guest Toploader, known for their hit “Dancing in the Moonlight.” This is a chance to relive the music of the 2000s while experiencing Blunt’s engaging live performances, which blend emotional depth with his signature dry humour.
- When: Thursday 15 February 2025, 7:30 PM
Kylie Minogue – Tension Tour
Pop icon Kylie Minogue brings her dazzling Tension Tour to Manchester for two highly anticipated nights. Known for her energetic performances, glitzy outfits, and a catalog of chart-topping hits, Kylie’s concerts are always a spectacular celebration of her career. With hits like “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” and songs from her latest album Tension, this tour promises electrifying moments, stunning visuals, and of course, Kylie’s signature show-stopping charisma. Be prepared for a night of non-stop dancing and singalongs!
- When: Monday 19th May 2025, 7:30 PM
Tuesday 20th May 2025, 7:30 PM
Busted vs McFly Tour
Pop-rock fans rejoice! Two of the UK’s biggest bands, Busted and McFly, are going head-to-head in a one-of-a-kind tour that’s sure to be an unforgettable showdown. Following a surprise announcement at McFly’s sold-out 21st birthday show, these two iconic groups will be touring together, performing their biggest hits and possibly some mashups and collaborations that fans have always dreamed of. With tracks like Busted’s “Year 3000” and McFly’s “Five Colours in Her Hair,” this tour is set to be a nostalgia-packed ride for fans of both bands.
- When: Friday 17th October 2025, 7:00 PM
Saturday 18th October 2025, 7:00 PM
- This article was last updated 4 weeks ago.
- It was first published on 24 October 2024 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.
Did we miss something? Let us know: [email protected]
Want to be the first to receive all the latest news stories, what’s on and events from the heart of Manchester? Sign up here.
Manchester is a successful city, but many people suffer. I Love Manchester helps raise awareness and funds to help improve the lives and prospects of people across Greater Manchester – and we can’t do it without your help. So please support us with what you can so we can continue to spread the love. Thank you in advance!
Got a story worth sharing?
What’s the story? We are all ears when it comes to positive news and inspiring stories. You can send story ideas to [email protected]
An email you’ll love. Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news stories delivered direct to your inbox.
“Great food at excellent value” An authentic taste of Naples arrives in Ancoats
Review: Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake at the Lowry is ‘a bold, contemporary twist on a timeless classic’
Convenience meets luxury with Trafford Centre’s premium parking
Comedian spearheads campaign for a statue of beloved comic Caroline Aherne
From Altrincham to the Somme: WW1 officer’s poignant sketches to go on display as part of Remembrance Exhibition
