Retford has set its sights on becoming the first in the UK to be crowned Town of Culture in 2028.
The Retford Town Centre Partnership Board, supported by Bassetlaw District Council, has put in a submission for the accolade which follows the success of the UK’s City of Culture.
It focuses on how the community works together to celebrate the Illuminate Festival held in the town each year, and its links to the Pilgrim Fathers.
Rick Brand Chair of the Retford Town Centre Partnership Board said: “Retford is a great candidate for UK Town of Culture with its many dance schools, art galleries, theatres, museum, and architecture.
“The combination of the Christmas Lights Switch-On stage performances and the Illuminate-Winter Festival of Light event provides a brilliant example of how our young people, museum team, market and street entertainment can come together to produce significant free events for the whole community."
The search has been launched by the government, with three prize categories for small medium, and large sized towns and aims to boost civic pride, and champion grassroots art and culture.
Cllr Charles Adams, Cabinet member for Business and Skills said: “We are pleased to be supporting the Retford Town Centre Partnership Board in their bid to be the first UK Town of Culture.
“Whatever the outcome, it’s a great chance to shine a light on some of the wonderful art and cultural events we are lucky to have on our doorstep.”
The winning town will receive £3million to deliver a six-month cultural programme in 2028, while the two other finalists will receive £250k to go towards some of their plans.
Cllr Harriet Digby, Mayor of Retford said: “This town owes an enormous amount of gratitude to the Retford Business Forum and the Retford Town Centre Partnership Board for their unwavering commitment to this town and its cultural heritage.
“I would specifically like to thank Rick Brand for leading us through this Town of Culture application process and highlighting across the country what spectacular free events are available here and our strong sense of community.”
The submission will now be considered, with a shortlist due to be announced in Spring.
Last Updated on Wednesday, April 15, 2026