Did you know that Bradford will become the fourth UK City of Culture in January 2025?
It is great news for the city and the countdown to what promises to be an electrifying year has started.
Bradford District was selected by the Government in May 2022 from a record-breaking 20 bids, following Derry~Londonderry in 2013, Hull in 2017 and Coventry in 2021.
Bradford 2025 takes place throughout Bradford District, a total of 141 square miles! It will feature performances, exhibitions, events and activities inspired by the variety of the local landscape, from the city’s historic centre to the breathtaking countryside that surrounds it.
Everything from the city’s history as a former industrial powerhouse to it being the world’s first UNESCO City of Film will be honoured. Most importantly however, it will celebrate the people of Bradford, from local artists and creative organisations to the diverse communities who call Bradford home.
Bradford 2025 is created for, with and by the people of Bradford. With more than a quarter of its population aged under 20, it will have the city’s young people at heart. It will proudly reflect this youth across all aspects of its programme, from education, skills and training projects to new artistic commissions centred on the lives, concerns and ambitions of young people today.
The spotlight will be on Bradford’s arts and culture, from dance and theatre to film, music and even food. At the same time, it will cement Bradford’s reputation as one of the most welcoming places in the UK for artists, producers and creative entrepreneurs.
The impact of UK City of Culture will live on long after 2025. It has already brought significant investment to the region and is set to serve as a catalyst for development, regeneration and change – reshaping Bradford for the benefit of future generations.
Bradford 2025 is supported using public investment from the Government, Bradford Metropolitan District Council, West Yorkshire Combined Authority and through National Lottery funding from Arts Council England, National Lottery Heritage Fund, National Lottery Community Fund, Spirit of 2012 as well as private investment and donations from a number of trusts, foundations and corporate sponsors.
If you are interested in volunteering, keen to get your community group or school involved, or simply want to know what’s happening near you, find out more by clicking here.
Accent is pleased to be supporting Bradford 2025. We will be promoting events and opportunities throughout the year to customers and colleagues.
Watch this space for updates and ask your housing partner, specialist housing partner or homeownership partner for the latest details.