Get involved in MK’s City of Culture bid

Milton Keynes has been longlisted in the race to become UK City of Culture 2029 – and now local people are being invited to help shape the city's bid.
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MK Council
Collage promoting Milton Keynes' 2029 City of Culture bid, featuring diverse cultural scenes and a performer in an illuminated costume playing drums.

The prestigious title comes with £10 million of investment to support cultural activity, and organisers want the bid to reflect the creativity, diversity and ambition of Milton Keynes.

That means residents, businesses, community groups, schools and creatives all have the chance to get involved.

Over the coming weeks, workshops and pop-up events will take place across the city, giving people the opportunity to share ideas, memories and stories about what makes Milton Keynes special. There will also be creative activities for all ages, including opportunities to contribute artwork and take part in school projects.

If you can't make it to an event, you can also share your ideas online through the 🔗Milton Keynes City of Culture website.

Local businesses and organisations are being encouraged to get behind the campaign too, with a free promotional pack available to help spread the word and show support for the bid.

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."

The final bid will be submitted in August, with shortlisted cities announced later this year. The winning destination will be revealed in early 2027, which also marks Milton Keynes' 60th anniversary year.

Whether you've lived in Milton Keynes for decades or only recently arrived, now's your chance to help tell the city's story.