Beacon of Light to host special International Women’s Day Fan Zone this weekend

Football fans and families are in for a special treat as the Beacon of Light hosts a dedicated International Women’s Day Fan Zone when Sunderland AFC take on Cardiff City this Saturday (KO 3pm).

The event will celebrate the achievements of both women in sport and the wider community.

With support from the Premier League Fans Fund, the event promises a fantastic mix of workshops, live entertainment, family-friendly activities and giveaways.

Following the announcement of SAFC and the Foundation of Light’s partnership with ‘Her Game Too’ they will be one of the many organisations welcoming supporters to the Fan Zone.

The Stadium of Light will play a key role in the advancement of women’s sport as it prepares to host the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup on 22 August 2025, further cementing Sunderland’s status as a leading venue for elite women’s competition. Ahead of this landmark event, the World Cup trophy will also be in the Fan Zone.

Beyond football and rugby, the city of Sunderland will also host a range of initiatives to mark International Women’s Day. Local organisations and community groups will come together to celebrate the achievements of women across all sectors.

Beacon of Light’s Jemma Dowson, is thrilled about the event: “This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the role women play in football and in our community. We’re proud to provide a space where people can come together, have fun, and feel inspired.”

This celebration builds on previous successful Fan Zone events at the Beacon, including special matchday experiences for Sunderland’s LGBTQ+ community, grassroots football teams, World Mental Health Day and Show Racism the Red Card.

FAN ZONE ACTIVITIES:

• Showcase of stalls to empower and inspire on Beacon’s Street Level
• Women’s Rugby World Cup Trophy
• Football on outdoor pitches
• Photo opportunity with the Sunderland Rugby World Cup Flower Bench
• Live music from Dance Revolution
• Meet Samson & Delilah
• Food and drink refreshments from Yard Nine cafe

The SAFC Matchday Fan Zone, based at the Beacon of Light, will be open from 12:30pm -2:30pm, giving supporters plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere before heading to the match.