Whoever decided to hold Bradford’s City of Culture launch outdoors in January, after dark and in subzero temperatures, was either a born optimist or someone deeply in touch with the Bradfordian psyche.

Bradford was selected from a record-breaking 20 bids to be named the UK City of Culture. The city fought off competition from County Durham, Southampton and Wrexham County Borough to clinch the title in May 2022.

The TV magician told the crowd how he started his career doing street magic exactly where they were all standing

Thousands of people braved sub-zero temperatures to watch an open-air spectacle starring magician Steven Frayne, formerly known as Dynamo, a 10-year-old rapper and a dozen aerial dancers to launch Bradford's year as UK City of Culture.

A fearless burst of brilliant energy has swept Bradford2025 into shining lights with a dynamic launch for a "city of dreams".

Bradford’s tenure as the UK City of Culture in 2025 has started with a specular event, including magic from Steven Frayne, who told crowds how proud he was to come from the city. Thousands of people braved bitter temperatures in City Park to watch a show specially created for the start of the year-long festival of art and creativity and involving more than 200 performers.

As Bradford’s huge celebration of arts and community engagement begins, Euronews Culture talked to creative director Shanaz Gulzar about what it means for the city. View on euronews