Hull to host national arts conference

The sun shining over Hull City Hall and onto Queen Victoria Square.
Image source, Hull City Council
A graphic showing Hull's Community Plan, and the Our Culture, Our Heritage, Our City ambition of the plan.

Hull will play host to OutdoorArtsUK’s national conference next year, following work to bring the event to the city by the Visit Hull and East Yorkshire Conference team at Hull City Council.  

This major conference will take place at Hull City Hall and Ferens Art Gallery on Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 February 2027, bringing together huge players in the UK outdoor events industry to exchange knowledge and share creative experiences.  

OutdoorArtsUK is a national membership and strategic organisation that works with many diverse parts of the events sector. It celebrates the work, talent and achievements of the individuals, companies and organisations working in this most accessible of art forms.  

2027’s conference will look to explore how outdoor arts can expand its impact and strengthen its position in society, working as a vital part of the country’s civic infrastructure.  

Councillor Jackie Dad, deputy leader and portfolio holder for culture and leisure at the council, said: “Hull is well-versed in delivering incredible large-scale outdoor events, so to be hosting this conference feels like a natural fit for us.  

“To have conference attendees from across the country, some of which I’m sure will be visiting for the first time, is incredibly exciting and I know Hull will shine brightly.  

“Ten years since Hull 2017, we are so proud to be where we are now, amongst some of the best cities in the country for our cultural offer and with a story to tell about the transformative power of culture.”  

David Doust, OutdoorArtsUK General Manager, said: “We’re really excited to be coming to Hull and convening artists, producers, cultural leaders, placemaking strategists, funders, policymakers and anyone curious about why art matters to thriving communities.  

“Ten years on from its landmark year as UK City of Culture, we will be exploring how outdoor arts can expand its impact and strengthen its position in society.   

“Joy and belonging flourish when art brings people from all walks of life together, and when this happens openly in public spaces, it becomes a powerful civic force. We believe Hull is one of those special places that can and does already harness this and we can’t wait to find out more.”  

Visit OutdoorArtsUK to find out more about the conference and book tickets.