New funding round opens for Leicester festivals & events
Local organisations are being invited to apply to Leicester city Council for a share of £230,000 to help them put on festivals and events in Leicester.
The council is offering the funding through the second round of its festivals and events funding programme.
First launched in May this year, the programme helps organisations to put on events that contribute to cultural life in Leicester.
Grants of between £2,500 and £25,000 are available, covering up to 50% of an event’s costs. Organisations applying must be based in Leicester and legally constituted.
The first round of grant funding opened in May this year. Successful applicants included Leicester Mela, Cosmopolitan Arts Festival, Journeys Festival International and Leicester Pride.
These events run alongside those organised by the council, including the Old Town Festival, Riverside Festival and the Christmas lights switch-on.
Graham Callister, the council’s head of festivals, events and cultural policy, said:
“This second round of funding is another opportunity for local organisations to bring forward exciting ideas for festivals and events that bring people together and celebrate what makes Leicester distinctive.
“We want to support high-quality events that are developed with communities, make good use of our public spaces and showcase the talent, diversity and creativity that Leicester has to offer.
“With £230,000 available, we’re looking forward to seeing proposals that can strengthen local pride and give residents and visitors even more reasons to enjoy our city.”
Organisations interested in applying will need to complete an application form. Applications must be made by 31 December, 2026.
Further information and application forms are available on the city council’s website.
LCC News - Published on Monday, October 26, 2026
