Liverpool: European Capital of Culture 2008

2008 will be the year of Liverpool. Tens of thousands gathered on St George's Plateau for the Grand Opening on Friday night and the sell-out concert, Liverpool - The Musical, the following evening. The show heralded the start of 12 months of music, art and cultural events expected to boost tourism and generate around £100m for the North West regional economy.

You can see the full programme of events here (PDF).

Event calendar 2008

The new year is abundant in cultural and sports events and gives you the chance to experience unforgettable moments by visiting different countries and cities. Here’s a list of some of the major events in 2008:

11th January - during the whole year
European Capital of Culture 2008 Liverpool.

16th March
The 2008 Formula 1 World Championship begins in Melbourne, Australia.

14th May
The UEFA Cup Final: City of Manchester Stadium in Manchester.

21st May
The UEFA Champions League Final: Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

07th June – 29th June
UEFA Euro 2008 Championship tournament in Austria and Switzerland: Zurich, Geneva, Berne, Basel, Klagenfurt, Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna.

14th June – 14th September
Expo 2008 Zaragoza, Spain - under the theme: “Water and Sustainable Development”.

08th August – 24th August
The 2008 Summer Olympics: Beijing, China

30th December
The Burj Dubai expected to be completed. It will be the world's tallest building.

Beatles theme hotel to open in Liverpool

A £20 million boutique hotel featuring Beatles themed artwork is due to open in Liverpool in January. The four-star Hard Days Night Hotel will open to coincide with the city becoming the 2008 European Capital of Culture. Located in the 'Beatles Quarter' of the city adjacent to the world famous Cavern Club, the property will feature specially commissioned artwork covering key events in the lives of four members of the band. The unique hotel will feature 110 rooms, including executive rooms and two penthouses – specially designed Lennon & McCartney suites – the Lennon featuring a white grand piano. The hotel will also include two restaurants, two bars, two conference rooms for corporate events and private entertaining and a wedding chapel.

Liverpool’s selection as the 2008 European City of Culture has been a major coup for the city. Already popular as a destination for city breaks, the local authorities have announced extensive investment in the city's facilities, accommodation, nightlife and attractions.