Blackpool’s Bid to Grow UK City of Culture 2029 Gains Momentum

Blackpool has been selected as a longlisted candidate for the prestigious UK City of Culture 2029 title, despite not being a city. The announcement, made on March 18, 2026, by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), marks a significant step forward in the town’s ambitious bid to showcase its vibrant arts and entertainment scene.

A Dual Bid: City of Culture and Town of Culture

Blackpool is pursuing bids for both the UK City of Culture 2029 and the inaugural UK Town of Culture 2028. The council, in partnership with the Arts Council England and Creative Blackpool, submitted an Expression of Interest earlier this year and has now been invited to submit a more detailed application for the City of Culture title. An Expression of Interest for the Town of Culture competition will be submitted before the March 31 deadline.

Funding and Potential Economic Impact

The DCMS will provide £60,000 to support the development of Blackpool’s full application. If successful in its bid, Blackpool stands to receive £10 million to host a year-long celebration of arts and culture. Previous hosts of the City of Culture title have seen significant economic benefits, including over 3 million additional visitors, 6,500 new jobs, and a £140 million boost to the local economy.

Blackpool’s Cultural Landscape

Blackpool boasts a diverse cultural offering, encompassing iconic attractions like the Blackpool Illuminations, The Blackpool Tower, and the Blackpool Grand Theatre. The town is likewise home to Showtown Museum, celebrating Blackpool’s entertainment history, and the Grundy Art Gallery, a National Portfolio Organisation. Major events, such as the World Dance Championships, and community-led arts programs further enrich the town’s cultural fabric.

Key Anniversaries in 2028 and 2029

The timing of the bid coincides with several significant anniversaries: the 150th anniversary of the Blackpool Illuminations in 2029, the 135th anniversary of The Blackpool Tower and the Blackpool Grand Theatre in 2029, and the 150th anniversary of the Blackpool Winter Gardens in 2028.

Competition and Next Steps

Blackpool is one of nine locations longlisted for the UK City of Culture 2029 title, alongside Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield, Swindon, and Wrexham. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the importance of equal opportunity in accessing cultural experiences across the country.

Council Leader Lynne Williams expressed confidence in Blackpool’s cultural vibrancy, stating, “Blackpool is bursting with culture and variety.”