basildon. this is our moment
Basildon is in the running to become UK Town of Culture 2028.
From nearly 400 applications across the country, we've made it into the final 15 towns, competing for £3 million to put culture centre stage and show the rest of the UK what Basildon is made of.
And we're not doing things by halves.
Basildon was born in 1949. So, to celebrate the year it all began, we've commissioned 49 local people and organisations to help shape what happens next.
From established artists to emerging talent, community groups to the next generation of Basildon creatives, we're putting local ideas, talent and ambition at the heart of our bid.
Big ideas. Weird ideas. Brilliant ideas. The stuff that could only happen in Basildon.
We're building a bid that's as bold, ambitious and unapologetically Basildon as the town itself.
And we're only just getting started.
what is uk town of culture?
For years, cities have had the spotlight. Now it's the towns' turn.
UK Town of Culture is a brand-new national competition celebrating the people, places and stories that make Britain's towns what they are.
But it's about more than putting on a good show.
Inspired by the success of UK City of Culture, the competition is about using culture to make a real difference. Bringing new investment into towns, creating jobs and opportunities, supporting local businesses, opening up access to the arts and giving people more reasons to feel proud of where they live.
It's also about recognising the role towns have played in shaping the country, celebrating what makes each one different and giving local people a bigger say in what happens next.
The ambition? A year of brilliant culture that brings people together, puts towns on the national map and leaves something lasting behind.
Ready to join the revolution?
Got a big idea, a burning question or something to say about Basildon Town of Culture? Or just want to cheer us on? We're all ears. Fill in the form and get involved.