Century City: Salford prepares to celebrate

21st April 2026, marks 100 years since King George V officially elevated Salford into the ranks of English cities by Royal Charter, recognising its national importance as a major industrial and urban centre. 

Next week will see the centenary celebrations come alive across the city, creating the perfect opportunity for everyone to come together and wish Salford a very Happy Birthday. 

Citywide events are planned for next Tuesday, marking the official anniversary with activities at Swinton Civic Centre, Salford Community Leisure centres, schools, partner organisations and the community and voluntary sector across the city, as well as a special civic event in the evening. 

From new exhibitions and dance performances to sports and dance 100 challenges as well as afternoon tea and sports youth club sessions inspired by the 1920s, the day offers something for everyone – engaging children and teens, families, adults, and older residents alike in a citywide celebration.

Whether people have lived here their whole life, recently made Salford their home, or simply feel connected to its remarkable community spirit, this milestone is an open invitation for everyone to come together and celebrate the people, places and stories that make Salford unique as it proudly steps into its next century.

Alongside passengers across Salford enjoying a more lyrical start to their journeys on 21st April, courtesy of the legendary “Bard of Salford” and “Punk Poet” John Cooper Clarke, who will be the official voice of passenger announcements, several famous faces will also be appearing across the council’s social channels.

The Ceremonial Mayor of Salford, Councillor Heather Fletcher said:

“We can’t wait to see everyone come together to celebrate 100 years as a city. Our centenary year is a momentous occasion for Salford – a time to celebrate our remarkable history, our vibrant communities and the spirit that makes this city so special. From our proud past to our exciting future, this year is about bringing people together to celebrate everything that Salford is and everything it continues to become.”

From cultural, civic and community events, to the Salford Centenary Award and Salford Heroes being interviewed by University of Salford Journalism undergraduates and Masters students, the Salford 100 Programme has been designed to explore Salford’s past, celebrate its present and look ahead to its future with an exciting programme of events. 

People can also look forward to a series of special collaborations and exclusive releases set to delight residents and visitors alike. As part of the celebrations, several locally inspired products will be unveiled, including a brand-new Salford Centenary Rum from Salford Rum, a limited-edition Salford Centenary Beer crafted by Seven Bro7hers with branding designed by a University of Salford Graphic Design student, and a bespoke Salford Centenary coffee blend created by Salford Roasters.

These unique releases are just a taste of what’s to come and people are encouraged to follow Salford City Council’s social media channels for additional surprises next week and the unveiling of a special programme of events next month, in addition to:

Your Salford 100 Exhibition – A curated journey through photographs, artefacts, and personal stories highlighting key moments in the city’s development and Salford Voices (Art with Heart) – free pop‑up arts workshops, storytelling sessions and creative activities capturing residents’ memories and experiences, both at Salford Museum and Art Gallery.

100 Years of Salford Photos – A new exhibition at Ordsall Hall launching 14 June 2026, highlighting 100 photographs from the last century chosen by 100 different Salfordians.

The Wagon Train – A pop‑up festival travelling through Salford’s neighbourhoods, shaped by each community it visits. 

Further details of more events coming soon can be found on the Upcoming Events page of the Salford 100 website. For people who want to put on their own event or activity in their community celebration toolkits packed with ideas, resources and assets can be downloaded.