Also known as 'Everyone Back to Ours', the year will be divided into four seasons. The event will draw on the distinctive spirit of Hull and the artists, writers, directors, musicians, revolutionaries and thinkers that have made such a significant contribution to the development of art and ideas.

This is an exciting opportunity to celebrate and share Hull’s story.

Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF

Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to celebrate and share Hull’s story; one that includes bitter Civil War, a role in Britain’s status as a seafaring nation, inspirational stories of the abolitionist movement; and tales of luminaries of British music and film.

“HLF’s involvement is thanks to National Lottery players and we hope that our £3m investment will help make a positive impact on Hull’s public profile and economic wellbeing.”

Four seasons, four themes

Each of Hull UK City of Culture's four seasons has a particular theme connected to the city and its place in the world:

• Made in Hull (January – March)
• Roots and Routes (April – June)
• Freedom (July – September)
• Tell the World (October – December)

Made in Hull

The first season, Made in Hull, will run from January to March.  Staged across the city centre, it will feature large-scale projections and illumination onto buildings and the historic skyline, moving images and live performance, to tell the story of the last 70 years of the city’s life.

In the first season and throughout the year Hull 2017 will showcase local talent and the vibrant cultural life of the city and the ideas and creativity across the North. It will also see leading cultural organisations from across the UK joining the city in creative partnerships.

City set to roar

Martin Green, CEO and Director of Hull 2017, said: “Hull has always had a unique cultural voice and in 2017 it will roar. The spirit, the stories and the talent of this city have inspired this national year of celebration. From its artists to its residents through to the city's incredible heritage, Hull will share with the rest of the world what people from here have known all along – this city has contributed significantly to ideas that have changed and enriched the world.”

Legacy

As part of a legacy programme, over 60,000 children and young people across the city will have the opportunity to be involved in Hull UK City of Culture. This includes working with artists in schools and as part of community residencies.

Full programme details can be found here Hull UK City of Culture 2017 website.