A new-look matchday experience awaits at Affidea Stadium this Friday.
Fans attending Friday night's URC season opener can enjoy a packed matchday schedule at Affidea Stadium, with the Fan Zone, Players' Walk, pre-match light show and half-time quiz all making their debut.
The 2026/27 BKT United Rugby Championship season gets underway at Affidea Stadium this Friday, with Ulster Rugby welcoming Edinburgh for the opening home fixture of the campaign.
Alongside the return of competitive rugby, supporters can look forward to a number of new matchday elements designed to build the atmosphere around the stadium from the moment fans arrive.
From the opening of the Fan Zone through to the final whistle, here's what's happening on Friday night.
5.45pm | Fan Zone Opens
The new Fan Zone will open from 5.45pm, giving supporters the chance to get into the matchday atmosphere before heading into the stadium bowl.
With entertainment, food and drink options and activities for supporters, the Fan Zone will be the place to start your evening as the countdown to kick-off begins.
6.30pm | Players' Walk
Get closer to the action as Ulster's players make their way into Affidea Stadium ahead of the game.
The Players' Walk will take place at 6.30pm, giving supporters the opportunity to welcome the squad as they arrive for the opening game of the new URC season.
6.45pm | Pre-Match Show & Player Warm-Up Starts
Once inside the stadium, the Pre-Match show kicks off at the CoolFM Stage hosted by Pete Snodden as he's joined by past and current players, giving fans a run down of what to expect from the evenings action.
The players will also take to the pitch for the official pre-match warm-up from 6.45pm so there is plenty to see on and off the pitch!
7.40pm | Go Power Light Show
Just five minutes before kick-off, the lights will go down and the Go Power Light Show will get the stadium ready for the arrival of the teams.
Fans are encouraged to have phones ready to scan the QR code and take part in the pre-match spectacle as we build towards kick-off.
Half-Time | AbbeyAutoline Quiz
There will be plenty happening once the game gets underway too, with the AbbeyAutoline Quiz taking place at half-time.
Test your rugby knowledge from your seat and keep an eye on the big screen for your chance to take part.
Be There for the First Game of the Season
With a new URC campaign getting underway and a host of new matchday features being introduced, Friday night is set to be a big opening night at Affidea Stadium.
Arrive early, get involved and be part of the first home game of the 2026/27 URC season.
Match Details:
🏉 Ulster v Edinburgh
🗓️ Friday 25 September
🕗 Kick-off: 7.45pm
🏟️ Affidea Stadium