This year marks a landmark 10th anniversary for the celebration, which originally launched in 2016 to coincide with the county’s 1,000th birthday.
The date, chosen by a public poll in 2016, honours our most famous son, Josiah Wedgwood. It marks the anniversary of Wedgwood setting up his pottery company in 1759, a moment that transformed Staffordshire into the centre of the world’s ceramics industry.
This year, Staffordshire Day isn’t just a day, it’s a four-day county-wide extravaganza. The 2026 celebrations on Friday 1st May and across the May Bank Holiday weekend offer something for every resident and visitor.
From the unveiling of The Staffy Trail to niche local history talks, here is the full line-up of events you cannot miss.
The Headliner: The Staffy Trail
At the heart of the 2026 festivities is ‘Staffy’, a new mascot inspired by the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Designed to be active, adventurous, and loyal, Staffy represents the hardworking spirit of our people.
Launching on May 1st is The Staffy Trail, a major public art and heritage trail featuring ten large 5ft sculptures unveiled across Stoke-on-Trent City Centre, Tamworth, Stafford, and Lichfield.
"Among the many things to do for Staffordshire Day, NEW for Staffordshire Day 2026 is ‘The Staffy Trail’ - a new sculpture and heritage trail across our county connected by easy transport links."
Visitors can use a mobile app or a printed map to take self-guided walking tours, discover unique sculptures, and collect prizes. The trail is expected to attract 30,000 visitors and generate over £600,000 for the local economy, providing a welcome boost to our shops, cafés, and attractions.
Friday 1st May: The Official Anniversary
- Behind the Scenes Museum Tour: Join the Archives and Heritage team for a free tour of the museum stores at Beacon Business Park, Stafford (10:00 am to 12:30 pm). See textiles, art, and carriages. Places are strictly limited and must be booked online.
- Lichfield Cathedral: An evening of "Music of Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight."
- History of Rugeley Talk: Hosted by the Rugeley & District Lions Club at the Rugeley Rose Theatre. Local historian Jonathan Oates will guide the audience through the town's fascinating past. This event is free, and all are welcome.
- Trentham Estate Celebrations: Trentham has officially joined the Friday lineup with a dedicated Staffordshire Day event.
- Leek Arts Festival (LAF): The month-long festival begins, featuring performing arts, music, and exhibitions across the town.
- A Hans Zimmer Candlelight Experience: A string trio performs cinematic classics at the candlelit All Saints Church, Leek.
- Moorlands Walking Festival: Kick off the weekend with a "Mindful Walking" session at Park Hall Country Park or the "Biddulph Half Marathon Hike" from Biddulph Grange Country Park, plus more walks.
- Stafford Archives and Heritage team are hosting a "Behind the Scenes at the Museum Stores Tour" at Beacon Business Park. From 10:00 am to 12:30 pm, visitors can see textiles, art, and carriages that tell our story. Places are strictly limited and must be booked via their online shop.
Saturday 2nd May: Markets and Music
- Leek Arts Festival: Ongoing performances and theatre based at the Foxlowe Arts Centre.
- The Ancient High House, Stafford: Visit for the "If Walls Could Talk" exhibition and a "Craft, Catch-up and Coffee" workshop.
- Stone Farmers’ Market: Pick up local produce and crafts from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on High Street.
- Drayton Manor Resort: Late-night rides and a Fireworks Extravaganza.
- Lichfield Cathedral: An evening "Music of Bruce Springsteen by Candlelight" concert.
- Uttoxeter Racecourse: The Staffordshire Plate Raceday on May 2nd features jump racing and a Robbie Williams tribute act.
- Weston Park: Hosting the XTERRA Triathlon and outdoor festival.
Sunday 3rd May: Engines and Exploration
- Cars & Coffee, Tutbury: Start your engines on Tutbury High Street from 10:15 am. This free, family-friendly gathering is perfect for petrolheads to admire classic and custom rides.
- Izaak Walton’s Cottage: A special opening day celebration from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Bank Holiday Monday 4th May: The Big Finale
Stafford Market Square Celebrations
The main civic event takes place in the heart of the county town from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
- Street Food & Community Stalls: A vibrant market featuring local traders and organisations.
- Vibe 1 Radio Roadshow: Presenters will be broadcasting live, providing music and a party atmosphere.
"The celebration recognises Staffordshire Day while highlighting Stafford's role as the county town and providing an opportunity for local organisations, businesses and community groups to be part of the day."
For the Kids: The 10th Birthday Prize Draw
If you have a child turning 10 in 2026, they could win a massive family day out! To mark "10 years of Staffordshire Day," children across the county are invited to enter a special prize draw. Entries close on 23rd April, so visit the official Visit Staffordshire website to get involved before the deadline.
Don’t forget to share your celebrations online using the hashtag #StaffordshireDay!
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