Loughborough Lightning players – including Amelia Williams, Churchy Knight, Tamsin Baynes, and many more – will be attending RugbyFest 2.0 – giving supporters the chance to meet the stars and also get a first glimpse of the new Supporter Village at Franklin’s Gardens.
One year on from being one of the host venues for the 2025 Rugby World Cup, a family-friendly festival is taking place to celebrate that magnificent occasion at the Gardens on Saturday, 12 September from 11am until 6pm.
A packed day of entertainment, games and music awaits – and we are now delighted to confirm that members of the 2026/27 Lightning squad will be in attendance.
Visitors to RugbyFest 2.0 will also be amongst the first to experience the new Supporter Village at the stadium, ten weeks before Lightning’s first JAECOO PWR game at the venue against Trailfinders on Friday 20 November.
The area has undergone a huge renovation during the summer and is set to transform the supporter experience for Lightning and Saints games!
The event is packed with exciting features, including the visit of the Gallagher PREM trophy Northampton Saints secured in June!
There is a watch party for England’s WXV fixture against Australia (kick-off: 3pm), and there will also be food and drink to enjoy in a festival atmosphere, as well as performances from the amazing Rock Choir!
RugbyFest 2.0 isn’t just about watching rugby, but playing it too! A girls-only U9/U10 ‘Pitch Up and Play’ session, alongside a Women’s Touch Rugby Festival.
General admission for RugbyFest 2.0 is £5*, with tickets available to purchase HERE.
Lightning players will be supporting the U9/U10 girls pitch up and play, giving an insight into their match day experience with changing room tours, and they will be participating in a player Q&A in the new family village!
If your child would like to participate in the girls-only U9/U10 ‘Pitch Up and Play’ session (for Year 4 and Year 5 pupils as of September 2026), please purchase the dedicated GA + U9/U10 Girls Rugby ticket, also available for just £5*.
To take part in the Women’s Touch Rugby Festival, teams can register HERE. Entry is £10* per player and includes admission to RugbyFest 2.0. Any queries regarding the Festival should be directed to community@northamptonsaints.co.uk.