Northampton’s Summer of Scrum: Where Rugby Meets Robots, Disco and Dinosaurs

Spoiler alert: This summer in Northampton is shaping up to be a bit of a belter – and it’s not just because of the Women’s Rugby World Cup (though yes, that’s very much a reason to get excited).

From silent discos and stilt walkers to surfing simulators and poetry slams, the town’s Market Square is being transformed into an official Fan Zone that’s about a lot more than just rugby. We’re talking full-on festival vibes, cutting-edge tech, and enough family fun to make you wonder if someone slipped a theme park into the middle of town.

And the best bit? It’s all free.

“This is about more than just rugby…”

Those aren’t just our words – they’re from Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure. And he’s not wrong.

“Hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Fan Zone right here in Northampton Market Square is a brilliant opportunity to showcase the pride, creativity and community spirit that defines West Northamptonshire,” he says.

In other words: this is Northampton’s moment – and you’re invited.

So, what’s in store?

1. Sunday 24 August – Innovation & Technology

This one’s for the future-lovers and gadget geeks.

Expect VR headsets, twin racing pods, and a walking robot who’s ready for selfies (yes, really). Kids can design their own flags, get their faces painted, and maybe – just maybe – beat mum or dad on the leaderboard. Plus, you’ll catch Ireland vs Japan and South Africa vs Brazil on the big screens.

Don’t miss: The iPad caricaturist. You’ll finally get to see what you’d look like as a cartoon.

2. Saturday 30 August – Festival Vibes

Silent disco? Check. Live music? Check. Samoan weaving and stilt walkers? Oh, absolutely.

This day is all about colour, rhythm, and creativity. You can help paint a mural, craft your own festival headbands, and cheer on the dancers and jugglers as they turn Market Square into a celebration zone. Live matches include England vs Samoa – and yes, we’ll all be cheering.

Top tip: Grab a sound wand from Wild Tribe and become the festival fairy you were born to be.

3. Sunday 31 August – Family Fun

Pack snacks. Charge your phone. Prepare to be pulled into a giant maze by a dinosaur.

This one’s a full-on family adventure, with inflatables galore, basketball challenges, canvas painting, and even a surfing simulator (inland, but still). It’s chaos, it’s colourful, and it’s guaranteed to wear the kids out.

Look out for: The Bubblologist. You’ll believe in magic again, promise.

4. Sunday 7 September – Music, Art & Culture

Local legends take the stage in this Northampton Music Festival takeover. While the matches play quietly in the background, you’ll be soaking up poetry, painting frisbees, and maybe discovering your new favourite band. It’s creative, soulful, and a beautiful way to wrap up a month of magic.

Bring: Your mates, your nan, your creative spirit. This one’s for everyone.

More Than Just Rugby

The Fan Zone is a collaboration between West Northamptonshire Council, Discover Northamptonshire, Muse, and Zone Developments – and it’s all designed to spotlight what makes this county brilliant.

From Franklin’s Gardens to Market Square, the Women’s Rugby World Cup is bringing the world to Northampton’s doorstep. But what’s really special? The way the town is showing up – with music, tech, dance, and dinosaur costumes – to meet it.

So what now?

Simple. Mark your calendar. Pick your day (or go to all four). And bring your people to Market Square.

Whether you’re a diehard rugby fan or just looking for something joyful to do in town, this summer, Northampton’s got your back.