Croydon will be London Borough of Culture in 2023, with plans underway for a celebration of the borough’s unique identity, diverse communities and rich heritage, culture and creativity.

The programme for This is Croydon will showcase Croydon to the world. It will include major events with international headliners performing alongside emerging home-grown talent, plus hundreds of cultural activities from our communities.

Launched in 2017 by the Mayor of London, the London Borough of Culture award aims to shine a light on the character and diversity of London’s boroughs and bring culture to everyone. 

Find out more about the London Borough of Culture.

Celebrating and supporting the community 

A dancer in a red dress with her arms outstretched. Photo credit: Croydon Mela.

Croydon’s people will be at the heart of the programme. The aim is to reach 250,000 people and involve every school, 1,500 artists and a huge network of residents from across Croydon.

With £1.3m funding from the Mayor of London, the programme is an opportunity to boost the local economy and a chance for our communities to be together.

Women holding a dog at the PrideFest event. Photo credit: Pridefest

Get involved 

The programme will be delivered by 15 local delivery partners, including three culture hubs – ensuring that it is truly led by the community and that Croydon residents of all ages are involved. Subscribe to the Croydon Culture Network newsletter to keep updated.

A steering group of 30 local artists and cultural organisations is shaping the This is Croydon programme. Find out more about the steering group.

Funding for artists and grassroots cultural organisations

Artists and grassroots cultural organisations can apply for Ignite Fund grants of up to £50,000 to deliver unique moments in all areas of the borough. The Ignite Fund is now open. Find out more about the Ignite Fund, including how to bid.

Find out more 

Join the Croydon Culture Network to keep updated.

Subscribe to the Your Croydon weekly e-bulletin.

Email us if you have further questions: culture@croydon.gov.uk

Image credits: Boxpark, Croydon Mela and Pridefest.