Bradford Takes Possession Of The Official Yorkshire Flag

Bradford and Ilkley are set to host the official Yorkshire Day civic celebrations in 2025, following the ceremonial handover of the Yorkshire flag to the Lord Mayor of Bradford at York Minster.

This annual event, which celebrates Yorkshire’s rich heritage and culture, is organised by The Yorkshire Society and sees different local authorities hosting the official celebrations each year.

The flag handover took place during the celebrations hosted by the City of York Council, whilst Yorkshire Day celebrations also took place across the Bradford district, marking the beginning of Bradford and Ilkley’s preparations for next year’s event.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Bev Mullaney, expressed her excitement for Bradford and Ilkley to take on the hosting duties next year:

 “I would like to thank York for a wonderful celebration of all things Yorkshire. I’m thrilled that this time next year my home city of Bradford will be co-hosting Yorkshire Day alongside Ilkley, which is also part of the Bradford District, and home to our anthem On Ilkley Moor Baht ’at – and you don’t get much more Yorkshire than that.”

Next year’s event coincides with Bradford’s year as the UK City of Culture, promising an extensive programme of over a thousand shows, exhibitions, and events showcasing local talent and creativity. Councillor Mullaney went on to say:

“Not only will we have the honour to celebrate our wonderful county but we do so when the district is going to be celebrating our year as UK City of Culture. We’re incredibly excited at the promise of creativity and ingenuity that is going to see over a thousand shows, exhibitions and events showcasing our people, places and talent to the nation.”

“We will be sure to give everyone a real warm Yorkshire welcome next year.”

Philip Bell, CEO of The Yorkshire Society, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming celebrations:

“The Yorkshire Society is delighted that Bradford and Ilkley will be hosting Yorkshire Day civic celebration event next year and we look forward to them elevating it to a new level as part of their amazing plans for their UK City of Culture year. Bringing the people of Yorkshire together is one of the main aims of the Society and I can’t think of anywhere better for us to do that than in Bradford and Ilkley.”

This will be the third time Bradford has hosted the Yorkshire Day celebrations, having previously done so in 1997 and 2005. It will also be the first time in the event’s history that Bradford will co-host with Ilkley, promising a unique and memorable celebration for all attendees.

Image Credits: Bradford Council