Blackpool has been named on the long list for the UK City of Culture 2029, marking a major step in its bid for national recognition.
Although not officially a city, the seaside town has a population of 141,500 and a visitor economy worth £2 billion, meeting the competition’s criteria.
The town’s cultural offer is wide ranging, from historic attractions like the Blackpool Tower, Winter Gardens, and Grand Theatre, to museums such as Showtown and the Grundy Art Gallery, and major events including the World Dance Championships.
2029 also marks key anniversaries: the 150th Blackpool Illuminations, and 135 years since the opening of the Tower and Grand Theatre, with Winter Gardens celebrating 150 years in 2028.
Blackpool is one of nine longlisted locations, alongside Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield, Swindon, and Wrexham.
Each will receive £60,000 to develop a full bid, with the winning location receiving £10 million to deliver a year long cultural programme. Three shortlisted but unsuccessful bids will receive £125,000 to support elements of their proposals.
The UK City of Culture title runs every four years and previous hosts have seen significant investment, increased tourism, and enhanced opportunities for local communities.
The winner for 2029 will be announced later this year.