And, true to our bid, the commitment to make this a local, national and international celebration of culture - with the uniqueness of Liverpool running through it - in all forms is being met.
And true to our bid, participation of people across Merseyside will be central to this Capital of Culture.
And, true to our bid, the city will deliver a year that will change the way this city thinks about itself and how others think of us.
But 2008 is not the end of Liverpool's transformation into a major cultural powerhouse and destination.
It is more a high-profile beginning of the journey.
It is a marker for where we want to take this city and what it wants to be.
But like the bid, our success depends on you, your support, and your involvement. You are Liverpool's X-factor ingredient. You make the city tick and in 2008 the stage is yours.
2008 will offer residents and visitors alike a unique opportunity to encounter, become involved in and enjoy the very best in creativity, the arts and culture, be it in our clubs, galleries, concert halls and theatres; on street corners, in public spaces, and on public transport; in workplaces, schools, colleges, sports and social institutions.
2008 has something for everyone, of all ages and tastes.
So I say today: No one in this city has an excuse for not getting involved.
In years to come, your grandchildren will be asking - what did you do in 2008?
