SPORTS FANS can show their pride during the Newcastle celebrations for one of the biggest weekends in rugby.
The Heineken Champions Cup final and European Rugby Challenge Cup takes place at St James’ Park this weekend (10 – 11 May), with a packed programme of events around the city for those without tickets to the match.
And along with all the other activities, LGBT+ charity, Northern Pride, will be getting in on the action as part of its Pride in Sport campaign, by hosting a range of entertainment and taster sessions at Baltic Square from 10 – 11 May.
The activities will take place as part of the Champions Rugby Village at the Quayside, organised by Newcastle City Council and the Newcastle Finals 2019 events team.
Supporters heading to the square over the two days can try a number of sports, from basketball to hockey to dance, with various clubs from across the region taking part, including the Newcastle Falcons Foundation.
And on Friday evening rugby fans can enjoy music and entertainment organised by the LGBT+ charity, with live performances in Baltic Square from 7pm to 10:30pm.
Sophie Bendelow, engagement director at Northern Pride, hopes that the event will help to promote inclusivity within sport.
“It’s really exciting that Newcastle is hosting the Heineken Champions Cup final and we’re delighted to be providing the entertainment at Baltic Square,” said Sophie.
“Sports brings people together from all walks of life and we have a wide range of activities planned to reflect this.
“There is going to be a brilliant atmosphere at the Quayside over the weekend and I hope fans of all ages will be encouraged to come along and get involved.”
Activities take place at the Champions Rugby Village from 3pm on 9 May to 11pm on 11 May and are free to attend.
Northern Pride organises the annual Northern Pride Festival, which this year takes place from 19 to 21 July at Newcastle’s Town Moor and Exhibition Park.
The Town Moor will be home to the Festival Arena and host a star-studded line-up on the main stage, which includes headliners Fleur East and Liberty X, along with a fun fair and the platinum bar.
The Community Village will take place at nearby Exhibition Park, where festival-goers can enjoy the Curious Arts Stage, the Rainbow Village and various zones.
For more information about Northern Pride, visit www.northern-pride.com or search northernprideuk on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.