Newcastle-Gateshead has been chosen over Blackpool as the host of the Great Exhibition of the North.
The government is contributing £5m towards the exhibition itself and a further £15m into a legacy fund to attract further cultural investment in the Northern Powerhouse.
Chair of the Great Exhibition Board Sir Gary Verity said: "Newcastle-Gateshead put forward an exciting and innovative bid to host the Great Exhibition of the North. Their ambitious plans will showcase fantastic venues across the city and highlight their unique heritage, culture and design. People from across the country can expect an amazing show in summer 2018.
Ruth Connor, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: "Our congratulations to Newcastle and Gateshead for securing the Great Exhibition of the North 2018.
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