Published on
October 21, 2025
This October, Manchester is set to host a unique celebration of women’s football with the “Part of the Pyramid” event, bringing together fans and players to honor the growth and success of the women’s game. The event, taking place on Saturday, 25th October, at Freight Island in Manchester’s city center, will offer a range of activities that highlight the achievements of women’s football, from grassroots clubs to the top leagues like the Women’s Super League (WSL). This social event is not only a celebration of football but also a significant moment for UK sports tourism, drawing visitors and football enthusiasts from all over the country.
The event is organized by the Free Lionesses in collaboration with the FA Women’s National League. It is set to be a day of fun, unity, and football culture, all building up to the highly anticipated England vs. Brazil match at the Etihad Stadium, just a short distance away. The game, with a 5.30pm kick-off, is expected to be a major draw, with fans flocking to Manchester to witness one of the most exciting international football fixtures.
A Celebration of Women’s Football
The “Part of the Pyramid” event is designed to celebrate the entire spectrum of women’s football, from the grassroots level to the top-tier professional leagues. The aim is to shine a light on the talent, dedication, and passion of female football players, coaches, and fans across the UK. Attendees are encouraged to wear their club colours, whether that be a grassroots club shirt, a referee shirt, or a WSL team jersey, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
This inclusive approach reflects the growing importance of women’s football in the UK and its rising popularity among fans. With the national women’s team, known as the Lionesses, gaining recognition on the world stage, the celebration at Freight Island comes at a crucial moment for the sport. It not only highlights the progress made but also serves as a reminder of the challenges still faced by women’s football, including equal opportunities and recognition.
The event is family-friendly, welcoming all ages, though anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. This inclusivity is key to the future of women’s football, as it encourages young fans to get involved and fosters a sense of community and belonging.
Activities for All Ages and Interests
The day promises a diverse range of activities, making it a fun and engaging experience for football fans and families alike. In collaboration with the FA Women’s National League, the event will feature everything from meet-and-greets with players to football-related workshops and entertainment. Fans can expect to engage in discussions about the future of women’s football, learn more about their favorite teams, and enjoy interactive exhibits that highlight the rich history of the women’s game.
In addition to the football-related activities, attendees can also enjoy the variety of food and drink options available. With nine bars and 12 restaurants on-site, including many vegan and gluten-free choices, there’s something for everyone. The venue will also offer non-alcoholic options at all bars, ensuring that the event is inclusive for all attendees.
Accessibility has been a key consideration for the event. Freight Island is fully accessible, featuring accessible toilets and a lift to the main event space. Neurodiversity bags will be available for supporters who need them, and sanitary products will also be provided. This attention to detail ensures that everyone can enjoy the event in a comfortable and inclusive environment.
The Link Between Football Events and Tourism
This event is an excellent example of how sports, particularly women’s football, can serve as a powerful driver of tourism. The excitement surrounding events like the “Part of the Pyramid” celebration and the England vs. Brazil match draws visitors not only from across the UK but also from overseas. Manchester, already a hub for football fans, will see a surge in tourism as fans travel to the city to be part of this momentous occasion. This influx of visitors benefits local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transport services, as fans seek places to stay, eat, and get around.
For the city of Manchester, this event adds to its long-standing reputation as a footballing capital of the world. As a major tourist destination, Manchester already attracts thousands of football fans each year, particularly during high-profile matches and events. The “Part of the Pyramid” event adds an extra layer to Manchester’s appeal, showcasing the city’s support for women’s sports and making it an attractive destination for fans of all ages.
For those traveling to Manchester, the event offers more than just a day of football festivities. The city is home to a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, from the National Football Museum to the vibrant shopping and dining districts. For football fans and sports tourists, this event provides an excellent opportunity to combine a passion for the game with a visit to one of the UK’s most dynamic cities.
Travel and Accessibility for Visitors
Freight Island, the venue for the “Part of the Pyramid” event, is centrally located in Manchester, making it easy for visitors to access the site. The venue is just a two-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly, the city’s main train station, which is a hub for travel from across the UK. Trams to the Etihad Stadium, the site of the England vs. Brazil match, are available from Piccadilly, with a journey time of just 15 minutes. For those who prefer to walk, the stadium is around a 30-minute stroll from Freight Island, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s streets on their way to the match.
For those traveling by taxi, the venue is just a two-minute walk from the nearest taxi rank, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft can be easily arranged. The location’s accessibility ensures that getting to and from the event is hassle-free for all attendees, whether they are traveling locally or from further afield.
In addition to the event, attendees can also visit the National Football Museum, which is offering a discount for anyone wishing to explore the museum during their trip to Manchester. This collaboration provides an added incentive for visitors to stay longer in the city and engage with its rich footballing heritage.
Enhancing the UK’s Sports Tourism Sector
The rise in women’s football has significant implications for the UK’s sports tourism sector. Events like the “Part of the Pyramid” celebration help raise awareness of the women’s game and attract fans from all over the world, contributing to the country’s broader tourism economy. The growth of women’s football also paves the way for more international tournaments, matches, and events that can further enhance the UK’s status as a global sports tourism destination.
In particular, cities like Manchester, London, and Birmingham are set to benefit from the increasing interest in women’s sports. By hosting high-profile events and celebrating the achievements of female athletes, these cities position themselves as leading destinations for sports tourism. Moreover, the rise of women’s football as a cultural and social movement can inspire more women and young people to engage with sports, further expanding the audience for these events.
For local businesses, this trend represents a significant opportunity. Hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and retailers can all expect to see increased demand as sports tourists flock to cities like Manchester for events like the England vs. Brazil match and the “Part of the Pyramid” celebration. The economic impact of these events is likely to be felt throughout the city, boosting the local economy and creating jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
A Growing Movement in Women’s Sports
The “Part of the Pyramid” event is a testament to the growth of women’s football and its place in the broader sports landscape. It reflects a wider movement that is shaping the future of sports tourism in the UK, creating more opportunities for fans and visitors to experience the excitement and culture of women’s sports. As the Lionesses continue to inspire millions of fans around the world, events like this help build the foundation for a more inclusive and vibrant sports culture.
For attendees, the event offers a chance to be part of something special, celebrating the achievements of women’s football while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Manchester. It also serves as a reminder of the power of sports to unite people from all walks of life and bring them together in celebration of a shared passion.
Conclusion
The “Part of the Pyramid” event in Manchester is more than just a celebration of women’s football; it is a significant milestone in the growing relationship between sports and tourism in the UK. By offering a diverse range of activities, engaging with fans of all ages, and creating a platform to celebrate the women’s game, the event is set to leave a lasting impact on both the sports community and the local economy. For tourists, it presents an opportunity to experience the best of Manchester’s football culture, while also contributing to the city’s thriving sports tourism industry.
With more events like this on the horizon, women’s football will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of UK sports tourism, bringing fans, players, and communities together in celebration of the game.
