With just 50 days to go, the city is gearing up for a weekend of events and activities leading up to the tournament’s launch on Friday, August 22, when England’s Red Roses will face the USA at the Stadium of Light.
Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to be just 50 days away from the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Sunderland, especially now that we’re starting to see visible signs like the lamp post banners springing up around the city centre.
This is the biggest ever Women’s Rugby World Cup tournament and it’s a proud moment for our city to be hosting the opener for such a prestigious event.
“It’s also a brilliant opportunity to showcase Sunderland on the international stage and one which is set to provide an estimated £20 million economic boost to the region.”
Sunderland City Council has planned a city-wide celebration to mark the occasion, including more than 150 flags and banners, live music, a fan parade, and a post-match fireworks display.
Festivities will begin on Thursday, August 21 at 4pm with the opening of the Fan Village in Keel Square, just a short walk from the stadium.
The village will host female-led musicians until 10pm, alongside a bar, extra seating, and an immersive rugby-themed light installation.
Councillor Beth Jones, Sunderland City Council’s cabinet member for communities, culture and tourism, said: “The opening weekend of the tournament is going to be really exciting and we’re looking forward to creating a real party atmosphere in the city.
“It’s an event which has something for everyone, whether you’re coming along to the opening match, soaking up the live music and pre-match atmosphere in the Fan Village, watching the fireworks after the match or planning to come and enjoy some of the fantastic family-friendly free entertainment on the Saturday.
“And with tickets selling like hotcakes and prices starting at just £10 for adults and £5 for children, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to see world-class rugby here in Sunderland.
“So I’d urge anyone who hasn’t already got a ticket for the opening match to get one while they’re still available.”
On match day, the Fan Village opens from 9am, offering food, drink, and rugby-themed activities including pass speed and accuracy challenges, jump height tests, and a reaction wall.
There will also be live music throughout the day, with tribute performances from Rock DJ, Mac Busted, Re-Take That, and Royal Rhapsody.
After the match, fans can enjoy a fireworks display over the river.
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Celebrations will continue on Saturday, August 23, as Sunniside Market moves to Keel Square for a day-long festival.
Attractions will include circus workshops, bubble performances, magic shows, aerial hoop taster sessions, an art market, free crafts, outdoor drawing classes, and live music curated by Sunderland Music City.
England’s Red Roses are favourites to win the tournament, having last claimed the title in 2014 under the captaincy of South Shields-born University of Sunderland graduate Katy Daley-McLean.
Tickets for the opening match are still available.
