Soft opening to 3,000 capacity Newcastle United fanzone | OneFootball

The Newcastle United fanzone has finally opened.

Originally due to open before the end of 2023, today (Thursday 8 August 2024) saw the eventual ‘soft’ opening.

The Newcastle United fanzone is a seven days a week venue and as well as accommodating all kinds of punters on non-matchdays, this weekend it will be serving supporters heading to the two friendlies.

Friday night seeing NUFC up against Girona, then Saturday afternoon it is Brest providing the opposition.

An official club announcement (see below) last Friday morning revealing the news that the Newcastle United fanzone would open today.

Now on the day that it opened, the club putting out this official video that explains exactly what the Newcastle United fanzone is all about. The soft opening this week and then leading up to the more full-on first Premier League home match against Southampton, when for sure that 3,000 capacity will be tested.

The club’s Chief Operating Officer Brad Miller giving some insight, as well as Peter Silverstone who is the NUFC Chief Commercial Officer.

Official club announcement on opening of Newcastle United fanzone – 2 August 2024:

An official opening date for St. James’ STACK, presented by Sela has been confirmed, with the highly-anticipated fanzone set to welcome the public from midday on Thursday 8th August 2024.

The 3,000 capacity fanzone will open its doors in time for the curtain-raising Sela Weekender, providing an exciting new entertainment hub for fans attending matches at St. James’ Park.

Crafted from 56 repurposed shipping containers, the venue has transformed land on Strawberry Place. A central plaza and main stage now accompany large screens, creating an immersive experience for live entertainment.

Alongside Newcastle United themed resident bar units – including Local Hero, Wor Bar and the Toon Kit Room – the space is also home to a vibrant mix of 11 original STACK vendors and renowned North East restauranteurs, bringing a globally-inspired street food offering.

In addition to serving as a dedicated fanzone on Newcastle United matchdays, St. James’ STACK has been designed as a lively midweek social and leisure destination for the general public. Open seven days, the venue will operate 10am-midnight every day of the week.

Launch of the venue will mark STACK’s eagerly awaited return to Newcastle city centre. A collaboration between STACK and Newcastle United, the project has also been supported by the club’s primary partner, Sela – the pioneering destination and experiences specialists.

“St. James’ STACK will add another dynamic element to the matchday experience ahead of the season-opening Sela Weekender,” commented Darren Eales, Newcastle United’s CEO.

“The vision of creating a bespoke multi-purpose entertainment destination has relied upon a real collaborative effort between Newcastle United and STACK. We’re proud of the club’s role in bringing a much-loved North East institution back to its original home in the city centre.

“Whether you’re a fan attending matches, socialising after work or family seeking entertainment at an upcoming event, the venue will offer something to suit every taste.

“Perfectly positioned in the heart of the community – within the shadow of the Gallowgate End – St. James’ STACK will be an excellent addition to both the club and the city.”

Neill Winch, CEO of STACK, added: “We are absolutely thrilled to bring STACK back to Newcastle, especially following the outpouring of support we received after our closure in 2021. There was a real community outcry for STACK to remain a part of Newcastle, and we listened. As we expand across the UK, having STACK return to its hometown is a momentous occasion for us.

“This venue not only celebrates the vibrant spirit of Newcastle but also offers a unique space for fans, locals, and visitors to experience our distinctive blend of live entertainment, street food, and social engagement. The collaboration with Newcastle United and Sela has allowed us to create something truly special, and we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy it.”