Liverpool European Capital of Culture 2008

The purpose of the title 'Capital of Culture' is not simply to highlight existing cultural excellence, but to encourage cities to develop and innovate in the cultural field. It will be an opportunity for Liverpool to show that culture is central to the life of the city, and contributing to regeneration, social inclusion, education and business. Annual programmes of themed activities and events have been planned between 2003 and 2010, providing a phased build up to 2008. Support is to be targeted to disadvantaged communities and a large number of events are designed to appeal to a wide cross section of people.

Each year in the countdown to 2008 will have a theme marked by a series of festivals.