This story is also available in Welsh – click here to read it.
Wrexham is delighted to announce its intention to bid once again for the title of UK City of Culture 2029, following its outstanding achievement in reaching the final stages of the last competition and finishing as runner-up to Bradford, the winner for 2025.
Building on the wealth of experience gained from its previous bid, the whole county of Wrexham is more determined than ever to celebrate its unique culture, heritage, and energy through a vibrant and imaginative programme for 2029.
This bid is not just about culture, it’s about people. It’s the people of Wrexham who make it such a special and inspiring place, and their creativity, playfulness, warmth, and pride will be at the heart of the campaign. Together, they will build a stronger, more connected, and more dynamic Wrexham.
Securing the prestigious title of UK City of Culture will create jobs, attract investment, provide new creative spaces, and shape an exciting legacy for the county. More than a single year packed full of cultural activity, winning the title will unlock projects and opportunities that will continue to benefit Wrexham’s communities for many years to come.
The UK City of Culture competition, run every four years by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), celebrates creativity, heritage, and community spirit across the UK. The successful city, town, or region is awarded the title for one year, during which it delivers a programme of cultural events and culture-led regeneration that brings lasting social and economic benefits to the area.
Having seen first-hand the transformative impact of competing in the contest, Wrexham’s partners, stakeholders, and communities have united once again to form a City of Culture Board, chaired by Joanna Knight OBE. The Board operates under the newly established Wrexham Community & Culture Trust, which brings together 13 Trustees with expertise across arts and culture, sport, education, business, inclusion, and governance.
Their collective stewardship will help shape an ambitious, community-driven bid. The new campaign, Wrecsam2029, will showcase Wrexham’s distinctive character, playfulness, and creativity to the world.
Joanna Knight OBE, Chair of the Board, comments “We are in it to win it and incredibly proud to announce Wrexham’s intention to bid for UK City of Culture 2029. This is a chance to build on the incredible experience, pride, and momentum generated by our previous campaign and to show the world what makes Wrexham so special.
The people of Wrexham are the heartbeat of this bid – their energy, creativity, and playfulness will make our journey even more exciting and vibrant. The Board brings together a wealth of talent and enthusiasm, and together we will work to create a bid that is inclusive, ambitious, and deeply rooted in our community.
Wrexham’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and collaboration – and 2029 is our moment to shine.”
Amanda Evans, Culture Bid Director, adds “Wrexham’s ambition for 2029 is an opportunity to tell our story on a national stage – a story of creativity, diversity, and pride that runs through every town, village, and community in the county.
We learned so much from our last bid, and this time we’re building something even more dynamic, inclusive, and forward-looking. The excitement and commitment we’re already seeing from local people and partners shows just how ready Wrexham is to take this next step.”
