The biggest weekend in rugby is just two weeks away and for the big weekend our famed Quayside will be transformed into a festival-like fan village for people to watch the games and make the most of the party atmosphere.
St James’ Park is hosting the finals of the Heineken Champions Cup on Saturday May 11, and the European Rugby Challenge Cup the night before, bringing some of Europe’s biggest teams, and thousands of their supporters, to Newcastle for one spectacular weekend.
Whether you’re on of the tens of thousands of spectators expected, weren’t fortunate enough to get your hands on tickets and or just a local out to make the most of the occasion, the EPCR Champions Rugby Village will be the place to be.
Gateshead’s Smoove & Turrell, Hyde Park Brass and a soon-to-be-announced special headline act will be providing the music, with other performers and activities as well as food and drink stations, there will be almost constant action from the moment it opens on Thursday May 9 until it closes with a stunning fireworks display on the Saturday night.
One of the prime attractions will undoubtedly be the chance to book an exhilarating zip wire from the iconic Tyne Bridge down to the Quayside. There will also street theatre and rugby activities – including the chance to try kick a ball across the Tyne – and a mainstage hosted by media partner Heart North East.
Michelle Percy, Newcastle City Council’s acting director of place, said: “The excitement for the Newcastle Finals weekend has been building for months now and is almost tangible as we’re just weeks away.
“The city is dressed for the occasion and we’re starting to see some of the amazing attractions that are going to be available to those who come to share in what will be a memorable weekend.“The Champions Rugby Village is in a stunning setting on the Quayside and I can’t wait to see masses of supporters making the most of what will be on offer.
“We’ve worked hard with partners at NE1, Newcastle United, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, Newcastle Falcons and European Professional Club Rugby and now we’re all eagerly anticipating the weekend coming around.”
Stephen Patterson, Director of Communications for NE1, said: “We are delighted to have been working with the city council and the Newcastle Finals 2019 event team on the Fan Village and city centre visitor experience for the tens of thousands of fans that will descend on the city over the weekend.
“We have an amazing city, with stunning architecture, world class cultural venues, hotels, bars, restaurants and shops all within a short walking distance of St James’ Park. Located in the heart of the city, it is a huge asset and combined with the wider city centre offer, enables the city to provide a fan experience second to none.
“The fan experiences planned around the stadium, Grey’s Monument and the Champions Rugby Village are designed to showcase the city’s assets and provide an outstanding celebration of rugby across the city for residents and visitors alike. Whilst we can’t guarantee the weather, one thing is for sure; as a city, we know how to host major events and I’m sure the Newcastle Finals 2019 will be the biggest and best yet.”
Across the weekend there will also be a local food and craft market at Monument, activities with Newcastle Pride at Baltic Square and Spectator Plaza at Strawberry Place and St James’ Metro Car Park.