Year of celebrations planned to mark two key Derby milestones

Derby City Council has announced plans to celebrate two key milestones in the city’s history.

A year of celebrations will take place across 2026 and 2027 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Derby-Osnabrück twinning partnership and the anniversary of Derby achieving its official city status.

This dual celebration, named 50:50, aims to provide a unique opportunity to reflect on Derby’s heritage, celebrate its twinning relationship and look forward to an ambitious future.

50:50 will officially launch on Tuesday 17 February, which is the date of the signing of the Osnabrück twinning.

The city council said it is working in partnership with our diverse network of cultural and community partners to develop a calendar of wide-ranging events to follow on from that date and span 2026 into 2027.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, city council leader and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, said: “As a city, 2026–2027 will be one of our most significant and exciting years yet.

“Marking both the 50th anniversary of our cherished twinning with Osnabrück and Derby’s own city status anniversary gives us a unique moment to pause, reflect on our rich history, and celebrate the incredible progress we have made together.”

The celebrations will aim to unite communities both locally and internationally, and celebrate all that is great, innovative and inclusive about Derby.

A key event for 2026 will highlight talent within the city and celebrate its international connections.

Taking place on Saturday 6 June in various venues across the city, including Cathedral Green and Derby Market Hall, the programme will feature Derby-inspired performances and showcase its performing arts sector.

Nadine added: “We’re working closely with our cultural and community partners to deliver a vibrant, inclusive programme so look out for more news about our plans coming soon, and please get involved.”