A landmark moment in Europe’s cultural calendar will be marked in style as the ‘Major Events Summit 2025: Connecting the Golden Thread’ event takes place in Liverpool on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at St George’s Hall. – shining a spotlight on the transformative power of events and celebrating 40 years since the very first European Capital of Culture.
Timed to coincide with the anniversary of Liverpool’s selection as the 2008 European Capital of Culture – a title first awarded to Athens in 1985 – the summit brings together leaders from across the UK’s events, culture, sport, and business sectors.
Delegates from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will gather to explore how combined major event strategies can strengthen social, cultural and economic outcomes across the home nations.
Taking place in the city that hosted the unforgettable Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine in 2023, this year’s summit will explore themes of place, identity, productivity, connectivity and collaboration. Key speakers include Claire McColgan (Culture Liverpool), Dave Moutrey (Manchester City Council), Julie Pearson (Glasgow Life), and representatives from UK Sport, the British Council, EventScotland, and Event Wales.
Curated by leading voices in culture and major event delivery, the programme is packed with insight and innovation. Highlights include:
- “Maximising Impact with Combined Major Event Strategies” – exploring how cross-sectoral approaches are delivering inclusive benefits across cities.
- “Showcasing Local Identities Through Events” – looking at the role of local events in community cohesion, cultural exchange and place marketing.
- “Telling Our Stories – Harnessing the Soft Power of Events” – delving into the powerful relationship between events and UK soft power globally.
- “Moving Towards a Common Ambition” – examining how national strategies can align efforts and outcomes across the UK.
Roundtable sessions throughout the day will allow delegates to shape the conversation, share best practices, and explore opportunities for further collaboration.
The event also offers a rare chance to engage directly with the people shaping the future of major events in the UK, as the summit sets out to build on the legacy of four decades of Capital of Culture – and chart an ambitious course for the decades ahead.
Venue: St George’s Hall, Liverpool
Date: Tuesday 20 May 2025
Time: 10am – 4pm
To view the event’s programme, click HERE.