Salford set for year-long celebration of city status centenary in 2026

City to mark 100 years since Royal Charter with major cultural, civic and community-led programme

Salford is preparing to mark its 100th anniversary as a city with a year-long series of events in 2026, celebrating its heritage, community and ambitions for the future.

The milestone marks a century since King George V officially granted city status to Salford by Royal Charter in 1926. Salford City Council has approved plans for a wide-reaching centenary programme and committed up to £1.5 million in funding to support the initiative.

The celebrations are set to include street parties, arts and cultural events, civic commemorations and educational projects. Residents, schools, businesses and community groups from across the city will be invited to get involved.

A steering group will be established to help shape the programme, bringing together representatives from the public, private and voluntary sectors. Salford City Council says the centenary year will be guided by the principles of partnership, inclusion and legacy.

City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “This is a remarkable moment in time for Salford and it is right that we all have the opportunity to come together to celebrate what makes Salford great. Our history has its roots in our mills, docks and working-class heritage. We have become a modern, global city, with world-class media, arts and education institutions.

“This funding is a commitment to giving back to the people of Salford. Over the last 100 years it has been the people, the innovators, the artists, the pioneers and the community champions – who have provided the inspiration, passion and true spirit of Salford.”

The council says the programme will also look ahead to Salford’s next 100 years, creating what it calls a “Salford 100 legacy” to benefit future generations, particularly young people.

Deputy City Mayor Jack Youd added: “This is a proud celebration of the Spirit of Salford, the likes of which our city has never seen before. We already know that 2026 is a year of big anniversaries, it’s 100 years since the General Strike, and 180 years since Peel Park opened. We’ll also be reopening the fully restored Buile Hill Mansion, adding to the sense of occasion.”

The council confirmed that the £1.5 million funding will come from earmarked reserves and represents a maximum allocation, with external sponsorships and partnerships expected to support the wider programme.