Salford announces Centenary celebrations for 2026

Exciting plans are now underway as Salford prepares to celebrate a landmark moment in 2026 - 100 years since it was officially granted city status.

The County Borough of Salford was awarded city status by Royal Charter from King George V on 21 April 1926, following a spirited campaign supported by Home Secretary William Joynson-Hicks. A century later, Salford has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into a vibrant, creative and globally connected city, home to world-class culture, innovation and proud, diverse communities.

To mark the Centenary, Salford has launched Salford 100; a year-long programme of cultural, civic and community celebrations that will explore the city’s past, celebrate its present, and imagine its future. Salford 100 will be rooted in neighbourhoods and led by communities. From street parties and exhibitions to storytelling and arts festivals, the programme will reflect the people and places that make Salford unique.

A specially commissioned cultural programme will run throughout the Centenary year, bringing Salford’s stories to life through art, performance, and community collaboration. Led by creative producers Walk the Plank and From the Other, the programme will be developed in partnership with residents and organisations. 

A civic programme will also run throughout the year, celebrating Salford’s identity, history and people through inclusive events and activities.

The Communities strand of Salford 100 will support local groups, organisations, and residents to host their own events from park anniversaries and street parties to community-led projects.

Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett said: “As Salford approaches its centenary year, we proudly reflect on a city shaped by bold ideas and bold people. Over the decades, Salford has led with firsts, from pioneering public services to cultural achievements, and those foundations continue to inspire our future.

“The launch of the Salford Centenary programme is more than symbolic: it’s an invitation. To every resident, community group, school, and business: step forward, share your story, and add your voice to our city’s celebration. Together, we will honour our past, celebrate our present, and write the next chapter for a Salford that is innovative, inclusive, and full of promise.

I look forward to seeing Salford come alive even more in its centenary year, and encourage everyone to get engaged, take pride, and help make this a centenary to remember.”

Residents, schools, community groups, and organisations are invited to help shape the Centenary year by:

• Sharing ideas through an online survey
• Signing up to the Salford 100 newsletter
• Applying for funding to host their own community events
• Using the Salford 100 toolkit to promote local celebrations

Salford 100 – A Century of City Pride.