'A chance to shine': Skegness bids to be UK Town of Culture 2028
Skegness is in the running to be named the UK’s Town of Culture 2028 after a bid was officially launched to put the town on the national stage.
The Skegness Neighbourhood Board has confirmed it will submit an expression of interest for the government-backed competition, which aims to celebrate and showcase the cultural and creative strengths of towns across the country.
A first of its kind, the initiative will see three finalists selected – one small, one medium and one large town. The overall winner will receive £3 million to deliver its programme, while two runners-up will each be awarded £250,000.
The bid is now being developed for Skegness, centred around a year-round programme of events designed to bring more arts, music and cultural activity to both residents and visitors.
Extensive consultation was carried out in 2024 and 2025, which revealed strong local support for more festivals, live music, theatre, film screenings and heritage events. Residents also highlighted the importance of celebrating and protecting the town’s heritage, while making it more accessible and engaging.
The bid comes at a time of continued investment in Skegness’ cultural offer, including the recent refurbishment of the Embassy Theatre through Connected Coast funding. The venue also works in partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company, helping bring high-quality theatre to the area.
Skegness already hosts a number of popular events, including SO Festival – a free international outdoor arts festival – and East Coast Pride, a family-friendly celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture.
Paul McCooey, chair of Skegness Neighbourhood Board, said: “Skegness is renowned as a welcoming holiday resort, but what is less well-known is our creative and cultural scene.
“This competition gives us a fantastic chance to shine a light on what we already have, while building for the future. There is clear enthusiasm from local people for more arts, music and cultural activities throughout the year.”
Councillor Graham Marsh, deputy leader of East Lindsey District Council and portfolio holder for culture, said the bid was a “brilliant opportunity” to highlight the town nationally.
“We know how much residents value arts, heritage and year-round cultural activity,” he said. “This bid allows us to build on that and attract further investment into Skegness.”
The deadline for expressions of interest is March 31, with a shortlist expected to be announced later this spring.