CHS Manchester 2026 is set to offer visitors more than a traditional exhibition, with an expanding Fringe programme bringing creative experiences, workshops, networking opportunities and social events to venues across Manchester.
The CHS Manchester Fringe programme is continuing to grow ahead of this year’s event, with a new line-up of experiences designed to connect the events industry with the culture, hospitality and personality of Manchester.
Taking place across the city from 29 September, the Fringe will lead into CHS Manchester at the AO Arena on 30 September, giving delegates opportunities to network and experience the destination beyond the main show floor.
CHS Manchester Fringe Brings New Experiences to the City
The expanding programme includes a diverse selection of activities, ranging from chocolate making and live music to cocktail masterclasses, food tours, event pitching sessions and exclusive venue experiences.
One of the latest additions is Creativity, Chocolate and Music at Hyatt Regency Manchester. Guests will be invited to take part in a sip-and-paint session, create chocolates alongside the hotel’s pastry chef and enjoy a live performance from Kenny B from the hotel’s 18th floor.
The experience combines creativity, hospitality and entertainment while giving attendees an opportunity to experience one of Manchester’s venues in a relaxed setting.
From Power Hall to Cloud 23
Another highlight of the CHS Manchester Fringe is From Power Hall to Cloud 23, offering delegates a journey through two distinctive Manchester experiences.
The event will begin at the Science and Industry Museum, featuring a live engine demonstration and an exclusive event-space experience. Attendees will then move to Cloud 23 for a Benugo reception and cocktail masterclass, with panoramic views across Manchester.
The experience showcases how the city can combine heritage, innovation, hospitality and premium event spaces within a single programme.
Discover Manchester Through Food
For delegates looking to explore Manchester’s food scene, Flavours of Manchester will offer a destination-focused experience.
The journey begins with low-carbon dining at Radisson Manchester City Centre before delegates head out on foot to discover independent food stories across the city. The experience will conclude with drinks and nibbles at Townhouse Manchester.
By combining food, sustainability and local businesses, the experience highlights Manchester as a destination for memorable corporate events and incentive experiences.
Industry-Led Activities Expand the Fringe
The CHS Manchester Fringe programme is also growing beyond activities hosted directly by CHS.
NOWIE will present Pitch Perfect: The Perfect Pitch Workshop, where attendees will form agency teams and respond to a live event brief. Teams will then pitch their concepts to a panel of senior corporate buyers, creating an interactive opportunity to test creativity, presentation and event-planning skills.
The Delegate Wranglers are also preparing their own Fringe activity, with further details expected to be announced.
This wider participation reflects the growing role of the Fringe as an industry-led platform rather than simply an extension of the main CHS Manchester event.
Manchester Calling Welcome Reception
The Fringe activities will lead into Manchester Calling, the CHS Manchester Welcome Reception at Manchester Central.
The reception will bring together members of the wider events community ahead of CHS Manchester the following day. Adding a distinctly local element to the evening, Manchester-born DJ Clint Boon will make a special guest appearance.
The welcome reception is expected to provide another opportunity for delegates, suppliers, event professionals and hosted buyers to connect before the main exhibition begins.
CHS Manchester Fringe Growing Organically
Emma King, CEO of CHS Manchester, said the development of the Fringe is significant not only because of its growing size but also because of the way the wider industry is contributing to it.
According to King, the Fringe has developed beyond CHS’s own programme and is increasingly being shaped by the events community itself. She described the growth as a reflection of both the industry and Manchester, with activities taking place around the main show and throughout the city.
King also emphasised that the Fringe is designed to be inclusive, giving people the opportunity to experience the show alongside additional activities, networking and destination experiences.
CHS Manchester 2026 Dates
The CHS Manchester Fringe will begin across Manchester on 29 September 2026, with activities taking place ahead of the main event.
CHS Manchester 2026 will then take place on 30 September 2026 at the AO Arena in Manchester.
With its combination of industry networking, hosted buyer experiences, educational sessions and city-wide Fringe activities, CHS Manchester is positioning itself as more than a conventional events exhibition. The expanding Fringe programme is adding another dimension to the event by encouraging delegates to discover Manchester while building professional connections.
As more organisations and event professionals become involved, the Fringe is emerging as an important part of the wider CHS Manchester experience and a showcase for Manchester’s hospitality, venues, food, entertainment and creative industries.
