By Kath
July 2 2015

The Festival of Rugby 2015, developed in partnership with England Rugby 2015 and Rugby Football Union (RFU), is today celebrating its 500th registered event. The high volume of registrations means that over 450,000 people are expected to attend Festival of Rugby 2015 events in the coming months –and there is still time for further events to sign up and celebrate rugby's biggest year.

England coach Stuart Lancaster took time out from England's training camp to congratulate Festival organisers in a special video message.

 

Click here to find a Festival Event near you!

 
Steve Grainger, RFU Rugby Development Director, said: "The interest and excitement that is building around Festival of Rugby 2015 has been great, the variety and geographical spread of the over 500 events submissions we've received really reflects the inclusiveness of our sport. This is a great opportunity for the rugby family to not only showcase rugby union's values but also to reach out to more communities and welcome many more potential players, spectators and followers to our great game.     "With many events already taking place across the country, we are already set to engage with over 450,000 people and want to encourage everyone to get involved in celebrating the biggest year in rugby history.”
 
England Rugby 2015 Managing Director, Steve Brown, said: "Festival of Rugby 2015 brings communities, organisations and rugby fans together to celebrate the game and, looking at the array of events taking place from now until October 31, we're confident that the entire nation can feel a part of the celebrations.”
 
A total of 130 events have taken place across the country in the first three weeks, ranging from touch tournaments to beer festivals, quiz nights, carnivals and art exhibitions. With big attendances at many of these, and plenty of excitement, the Festival has launched with a boom.
 
Upcoming events include the WOW! Rugby Exhibition in Gloucester, the Kenilworth Rugby Club Carnival Float, a Disability Sports and Family Day at Castleford RUFC and a Party on the Pitch at Balsall Common.