Belfast has secured nearly £1.5 million sterling in grants to fund a major new programme of cultural celebrations.
Council chiefs were given the money to put together a range of arts events in the run-up to the City Hall's 2006 centenary.
British Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell announced the National Lottery windfall, which forms part of a £19.5 million package handed out to urban regions across Britain.
Councillor Ian Crozier, chairman of the City Council's development committee
The £1.35 million funding for the "Made in Belfast" programme builds on the momentum and hopes raised by the failed attempt to host the European Capital of Culture 2008.
The programme begins with a partnership with Cork which is hosting the coveted culture capital title in 2005.
Details of the package are still to be finalised, but will include a diverse range of the best of Belfast's festivals and events spanning music, theatre, dance, literature, film, visual arts, sports and heritage.
Councillor Ian Crozier, chairman of the City Council's development committee, said: "This is a real vote of confidence in Belfast and demonstrates that the major advances that we are making in regenerating the city are being recognised."
PA