Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton's waterfront home, has cemented its status as rugby league's new home after hosting the 19th Magic Weekend with record-breaking ticket sales and electric atmosphere. The event, held over two days in July 2026, drew thousands of fans from across the Super League, with supporters mingling peacefully in stands, concourses, and local pubs.
Record-breaking attendance and festival atmosphere
Magic Weekend 2026 set a new attendance record, with excitement building since the full-time hooter of the second Ashes Test between England and Australia last year—the first non-football event at the stadium. The festival vibe was immediate upon entering The Plaza, which featured merchandise stores, games for adults and children, and freebies. Karen Davies, a Hull KR fan attending for the first time, said: "This is what it is all about. It is my first time here, but it already feels like the perfect venue for Magic."
Fan camaraderie and unique moments
Unlike football's tribalism, rugby league fans from all 12 clubs mixed harmoniously. Hull KR supporters took over O'Neill's pub on Friday night, while fans of all clubs gathered at Coopers Town House. Jay Dunn, a Leigh Leopards fan, told the ECHO: "It has been brilliant. We got the train up this morning, had a few pints in town, came down and now we will have a few more beers before heading home."
Future Prime Minister Andy Burnham was spotted enjoying a pint while watching Leigh Leopards beat Warrington Wolves 24-6. He also expressed interest in changing legislation to allow football fans to drink at their seats. The weekend saw a historic performance by English singer Example, who became the first music artist to perform at the stadium, encouraging fans to try an Everton pie.
Derby drama and on-field action
Sunday's action featured the fierce derby between St Helens and Wigan Warriors. A flare-up occurred seconds into the game, and Wigan eventually won 16-14 after Jackson Hastings missed a penalty after the full-time hooter. Tries from Jai Field and Zach Eckersley gave Wigan the lead, but Jack Welsby's late try set up a tense finish. St Helens fan David Jackson said: "We don’t like each other and we always beat each other. People away from rugby league probably don’t realise this is a proper rivalry." He added: "I hope Magic is back here again next year."
Magic Weekend to return in 2027
RL Commercial confirmed that Magic Weekend will return to Hill Dickinson Stadium next year, following record ticket sales and performances by Jax Jones and Example. The event has breathed new life into a concept that some Super League clubs had wanted to scrap. The countdown to 2027 has already begun.
