Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary celebrations have started with a bang – thanks to a £125,000 funding boost. The money from Arts Council England follows a successful funding bid from Stoke Creates Cultural Compact and will support an exciting programme of cultural events to mark the city’s 100th anniversary and celebrate its status as a World Craft City.
The funding will help launch The People’s Parade, a major community event set to take place during the first-ever Stoke-on-Trent Day, part of a year-long celebration of the city’s past, present and future. Stoke-on-Trent Day will be an annual event held every June 5 to celebrate the city’s history, its culture, and the people who make it great.
The People’s Parade will be the main event of the weekend on Saturday, June 7. Everyone is invited to take part in this fun, family-friendly parade, which will bring people together to celebrate Stoke-on-Trent.
Professor Carola Boehm, chair of Stoke Creates, said: “We’re thrilled to receive this funding from Arts Council England, which will help us put on a fantastic programme of events for the city’s centenary. The People’s Parade will highlight Stoke-on-Trent’s rich heritage and its growing creative future. We’re excited for everyone to join in and make this celebration truly special.
“The People’s Parade will act as a step-change for our city to communicate that it is not only a place of heritage but also of innovation and creativity. It will do this on our streets, in our libraries, and around our neighbourhoods – and we hope everyone will play their part.”
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that Arts Council England continues to invest in Stoke-on-Trent. Our centenary year promises to be an incredible celebration of all that makes this city unique, and the People’s Parade will be a highlight of the festivities.
“Stoke-on-Trent Day is a chance for everyone in the city to come together and celebrate our shared history, and take pride in what makes our city special. The People’s Parade will be a fun and inclusive event that people of all ages can enjoy and be part of.”
For the latest information on Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary celebrations, click here.
Get daily headlines and breaking news emailed to you – it’s FREE