2026 is shaping up to be one of those rare years where everything seems to land at once. After what’s felt like an endless cycle of roadworks, diversions and “it’ll be worth it in the end” moments, Hull is heading into a year where major projects finish, big events return in force, and the city finally gets to enjoy the results. If you’ve ever thought Hull was on the verge of something, 2026 is when it actually happens.
The year kicks off with a genuinely international moment. In winter and early spring, Hull KR host the Brisbane Broncos at the MKM Stadium for the Betfred World Club Challenge, putting the city firmly in the global rugby league spotlight. It’s the kind of event that brings visiting fans, worldwide attention and a reminder that Hull isn’t just watching big sport happen elsewhere. Not long after, March sees the return of Colliderfest, with hands-on science, creativity and interactive experiences taking over venues across the city centre. It’s become one of those events that quietly proves Hull does clever and playful really well.
Spring is where the long-term transformation really becomes visible. The A63 Castle Street project is aiming for completion, which should finally reconnect the city centre with the waterfront in a way that’s been talked about for decades. At the same time, Queen’s Gardens is expected to reopen following its major redevelopment, giving Hull a central green space that feels like a destination rather than a shortcut. Humber Dock Street and the surrounding Marina area are also due to finish their upgrades, tying together the city centre and waterfront far more cleanly than before.
By the time summer arrives, Hull is firmly back in festival mode. June brings the return of The Big Malarkey, filling the city with family-friendly storytelling, imagination and creative chaos. Humber Street Sesh is expected back at the Marina, as ever turning Humber Street into one of the best free music showcases in the region. July sees Pride in Hull celebrate its 25th year, a milestone that reflects just how established and well-supported the event has become. Later in the summer, Freedom Festival once again takes over the city centre with large-scale performances, installations and street theatre.
Summer also marks a long-awaited cultural reopening. The Hull Maritime Museum is due to reopen, bringing one of the city’s most important buildings and collections back into public life. Alongside this, Hull Museums and Ferens Art Gallery are expected to roll out a packed programme of exhibitions and events, making the cultural offer feel properly joined-up again.
As the nights draw in, the city doesn’t slow down. November sees the return of Hull Comedy Festival, filling venues across Hull with stand-up and live shows and giving people plenty of reasons to head out during the darker months.
With all of this lined up, it’s no surprise Hull was recently named one of the best destinations to visit by National Geographic. After years of disruption and patience-testing progress, 2026 looks like the year Hull finally gets to enjoy the payoff. Not a rebrand, not a promise, just a city that’s finished building and ready to get on with it.
