Over the next few months, citizens and organisations have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be part of Milton Keynes’ bid to become UK City of Culture 2029.
Fresh from being longlisted in the national competition – which will see one city receive £10 million to help develop culture locally – we are calling on the city’s cultural sector, residents, creatives, and businesses, to help shape a vision that truly reflects the city’s creativity, diversity and ambition.
There’s lots of ways to get involved. Over the next month, workshops and pop-up sessions will take place around the city where local people can share ideas, family stories, and their thoughts on what Milton Keynes means to them. A Book of Ideas will capture what makes the city so special, and there’ll be opportunities for all ages to create collages and other artworks, as well as activities in schools. Find out what’s happening, where and when HERE.
There’s also a quick and easy way to share ideas online at mkculture2029.co.uk
Businesses and organisations can also download a promotional HERE to spread the word and show they back the bid. It’s packed with posters, material for social media and other promotional items, and feature the Milton Keynes bid’s theme: We’re just getting started.
The final bid will be submitted in August. Shortlisted cities will be announced in the autumn, with the winner revealed in early 2027 – Milton Keynes’ 60th anniversary year.
Cllr Jane Carr, Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, said: “This is a huge moment for Milton Keynes. Being longlisted is just the beginning, now we have the chance to come together and create something bold, ambitious and uniquely ours. We want to hear from everyone, because this bid belongs to the whole city”
“Whether you’re an artist, a business owner, someone growing up here, or you just love Milton Keynes, your ideas and your voice can help shape what we hope will be a brilliant celebratory year of culture. Winning the title would be transformative for many years but the journey is something great in itself – and our conversations are already sparking ideas, strengthening connections and creating new cultural opportunities we can all be proud of.”
