"We are delighted with the news today that Southampton has been chosen to go through to the next stage of the bid to be UK City of Culture 2025. The way that Southampton has come together to get behind our bid is unprecedented for our city, and I want to thank everyone for their belief and unwavering support. We now move forward with confidence and optimism to the next chapter of our story to become UK City of Culture in 2025.” Claire Whitaker OBE, Bid Director, Southampton 2025 UK City of Culture bid
We have secured our place as one of the eight longlisted locations to become UK City of Culture 2025. From here on the competition really steps up, it’s our time to showcase Southampton’s hidden wonders, our unique communities, our poignant heritage and ambition for growth, our home-grown talent and our international influence and connections – it is Southampton’s moment – make it SO!
The full application deadline is Wednesday 26 January 2022, when a short-list of just 4 locations will be announced, with judges visiting those locations in March 2022 and the winner announced in May 2022.
Now is the time to celebrate this news with us and take to your socials to spread the word of Southampton’s success.
Thank you for all your support so far. If you’re not already, follow us on social and show your support for the bid.
Source: The Southampton 2025 Bid Team