A new short survey is giving residents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be part of Milton Keynes’ bid for UK City of Culture 2029.

Fresh from being longlisted in the national competition – Milton Keynes City Council is calling on the community to help shape a creative, diverse and ambitious future for Milton Keynes, by helping it secure a victory.

The region that takes the 2026 City of Culture title will receive £10 million to help develop culture locally. The title will also put the winning city on a global stage, attracting more investment, jobs and opportunities for the community.

The city council is working hard to put together a bid worthy of securing a victory, but it needs your help. You can get involved by sharing your ideas in a quick survey.

Residents and organisations can get involved in a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be a part of Milton Keynes’ bid for UK City of Culture 2029.

placeholder image — Residents and organisations can get involved in a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be a part of Milton Keynes’ bid for UK City of Culture 2029.

You can also join workshops and pop-up sessions taking place round the city over the next month, where local people can share ideas, family stories, and their thoughts on what MK means to them.

A Book of Ideas will capture what makes the city so special, and there’ll be opportunities for all ages to create collages and other artworks, as well as activities in schools.

You can learn about all the events taking place and how to get involved on the new Destination Milton Keynes (DMK) website.

Businesses and organisations can also download a promotional pack from the DMK website to spread the word and show they back the bid.

Cllr Jane Carr, Leader of Milton Keynes City Council said: “This is a huge moment for Milton Keynes. Being longlisted is just the beginning, now we have the chance to come together and create something bold, ambitious and uniquely ours.

“We want to hear from everyone, because this bid belongs to the whole city. Whether you’re an artist, a business owner, someone growing up here, or you just love Milton Keynes, your ideas and your voice can help shape what we hope will be a brilliant celebratory year of culture.”

The final bid will be submitted in August. Shortlisted cities will be announced in the autumn, with the winner revealed in early 2027 – Milton Keynes 60th anniversary year.