Featured image credit: Newcastle United
Newcastle United’s fanzone, St. James’ Stack, is set to open to the public from midday on Thursday (August 8).
The 3,000-capacity fanzone is presented by Saudi Arabian experiences company Sela, which is also the club’s shirt sponsor and majority owned by the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund.
“St. James’ Stack will add another dynamic element to the matchday experience ahead of the season-opening Sela Weekender,” said Darren Eales, Newcastle United’s chief executive.
“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.”
It is opening in time for the Sela Weekender, which is a two-day event featuring pre-season games between Newcastle and Girona FC and Stade Brestois on August 9 and 10, respectively.
The venue is made from 56 repurposed shipping containers and has a central plaza and main stage that boast several large screens.
St. James’ Stack features Newcastle United themed resident bar units – including Local Hero, Wor Bar, and the Toon Kit Room – and will be home to 11 food vendors.
It will be open seven days a week and will operate from 10am to midnight on each day.
Newcastle United’s previous fanzone closed three years ago but public demand is said to have been a driving force behind the new opening.
“We are absolutely thrilled to bring Stack back to Newcastle, especially following the outpouring of support we received after our closure in 2021,” said Stack chief executive Neil Winch.
“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.”
The site is also said to create 150 full-time and part-time jobs, with Newcastle United Foundation’s employability programme – NU Futures
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