Stoke-on-Trent Centenary: Celebrating 100 years of History and Heritage
2025 marks a momentous occasion for Stoke-on-Trent as the city celebrates its centenary!
Stoke-on-Trent first obtained city status on 5 June 1925, following a direct approach to King George V, to recognise the city’s considerable contributions to the pottery industry.
Known worldwide as the ‘Potteries,’ Stoke-on-Trent has a rich history of craftsmanship, industry, and culture. Over the past 100 years, this remarkable city has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into a vibrant destination for heritage, arts, and ceramics.
In 2024, Stoke-on-Trent was awarded World Craft City Status, catapulting the City onto the global stage. This award is conferred by the World Crafts Council to areas where there are excellent social, cultural, and economic contributions from communities.
This year, visitors and locals alike can take part in an incredible line-up of events to commemorate the city’s milestone anniversary.
Click here to visit the official Stoke100 website.
Celebrating 100 years of strength, kindness and creativity as a city.
Click here to view the vodcast: Stoke-on-Trent 100: Voices of the City
Read more about the reasons we are celebrating 100 years of Stoke-on-Trent
For 2025, the Council is asking everyone to ‘save the date’ of Saturday 7 June and to get involved in a mass-participation carnival feel celebration – from resident associations, sports clubs, schools, colleges and the university to businesses, charities and youth groups and performing arts groups – you are all on the guest list!
Leader of the city council, councillor Jane Ashworth, said: “Whether you are born and bred in one of the six towns, moved away, or recently made Stoke-on-Trent your home, you are a ‘Stokie’ to us. We want everyone to celebrate this small city, with a big heart.
A Brief History of Stoke-on-Trent
Stoke-on-Trent was officially formed in 1925 with the federation of six towns: Burslem, Fenton, Hanley, Longton, Stoke, and Tunstall. Each of these towns had its unique identity, but together, they created the world’s leading centre for ceramics production. Iconic brands such as Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, and Spode have called Stoke-on-Trent home, adding to the reputation as the heart of the ceramics industry. Over the decades, the city has adapted to changing times, blending its industrial heritage with a creative arts and cultural scene.
The city council will be encouraging businesses and the community and voluntary sector to come together in a year-long programme to celebrate the rich heritage of the city and tell the story of how Stoke-on-Trent became a city.
Be part of #SOTCelebrates
#SOTCelebrates is a unique opportunity to tell the city about your group and the positive impact it is having on the local community and inspire more volunteers to join your cause.