A free Fanzone for the Rugby World Cup 2015 is set to take over Albert Square this weekend (Friday 9 – Sunday 11 October) – boasting live entertainment, street food traders, as well as big screens showing all eight international matches along with a host of rugby activities.
The Fanzone will feature three bars, a selection of stalls, a globe trotting assortment of street food and on Saturday will even be displaying the Webb Ellis Cup.
A dozen stalls will showcase a diverse tasting menu of tempting treats ranging from Scottish Aberdeen Angus burgers and Italian pizzas to fish and chips, and gourmet hotdogs.
TOM are looking forward to the fabulous Que Delícia, serving up a range of authentic Portuguese street food and The Mac Factory, serving a revamped version of the classic Mac 'n' Cheese.
Other street food faves include The Indian Grill Curry House, fulfilling all your curry needs, the Italian Kitchen serving up a pizza storm, and Meet Frank run by Frank the hot dog perfectionist.
Saturday 10 October is set to be a red-letter day for rugby fans in Manchester and expected to draw more than 125,000 people to the region for high profile matches from both rugby disciplines.
The Fanzone will be at the heart of city’s rugby activity creating the perfect venue to watch all the weekend’s world cup games and take part in a host of rugby related activities.
Two big screens will show every Rugby World Cup 2015 match live across the weekend and for anyone inspired by the professionals there’s a range of have-a-go rugby activities to try out - including a kicking simulator, precision pass and speed pass challenges, rugby bungee, ‘bucking ball’ and an inflatable rugby pitch.
On Friday two rugby legends will visit the fanzone. Mark Cueto (World Cup finalist in 2007) and Mike Tindall (World Cup winner in 2003 and part of the 2011 squad) will both be interviewed giving visitors a unique view of the game from the very highest level.
Other highlights to look out for include match analysis from Sale Sharks’ players, the chance to learn the Haka ahead of the New Zealand v Tonga game on Friday and a karaoke sing-a-long-send off for England on Saturday.
Councillor Rosa Battle, Manchester City Council executive member for culture and leisure, said: “Albert Square is certain to have an unrivalled atmosphere this weekend, providing the prefect place to take in all the Rugby World Cup 2015 action with like-minded sports fans.
“England may no longer be contenders in the tournament but there’s no reason not to lend support to another team, especially the remaining Home Nations, and enjoy the world-class rugby on display in a wonderful location.”
Information and advice on transport around the city for Rugby World Cup can be found at tfgm.com/rugby