Ghent Rugby Festival
The perfect festival for Colts and Adult sides in Belgium.
Ghent has a long and interesting history, which dates to the 13th century and it was once the second largest city in Europe. It has an architectural masterpiece of castles, cathedrals, churches, and old merchant houses. The medieval castle is situated in the middle of the city and has wonderful views from the top and is well worth a visit.
The city is full of cafés, restaurants and bars for you to enjoy the famous Belgian wheat beer!
Friday 15th – Monday 18th April 2022
The Ghent Rugby Festival is an annual event held over the Easter Bank Holiday and always attracts teams from Europe and further afield. Aside from the rugby, there’s entertainment with an all night party on Friday, followed by a fancy dress disco on Saturday and another party on Sunday. If you want to attend the party nights, please speak with us when booking your tour.
A perfect combination of rugby and social activities
Only 2 hours from Calais
Experience the medieval town of Ghent
European Age Groups
| Age Group | Team Size | Format |
|---|---|---|
| U18 (Girls) | 7-a-side | IRB Rules – League Format and Final between the top two teams |
| Women 7s | 7-a-side | IRB Rules – League Format and Final between the top two teams |
| Women 10s | 10-a-side | IRB Rules – League Format and Final between the top two teams |
| U17 Boys | 15-a-side | IRB Rules – League Format and Final between the top two teams |
| U19 Boys | 15-a-side | IRB Rules – League Format and Final between the top two teams |
| Men 7s | 7-a-side | IRB Rules – League Format and Final between the top two teams |
| Men 10s | 10-a-side | IRB Rules – League Format and Final between the top two teams |
What to Expect
Day 1: Depart from the UK by coach or air and arrive in Ghent. Check in to your hotel before taking part in the Belgian Beer evening and welcome party at Ghent Rugby Club.
Day 2: All age categories will play their pool matches today, followed by the renowned all-you-can-eat BBQ and a themed party!
Day 3: The finals for all age categories take place today, as well as a Mixed Touch Rugby tournament. Once the matches are completed, there will be a prize ceremony and a closing party.
Day 4: Time to head home and get some rest! You will check out of your accommodation and head home by coach or air.
What’s included in your package
3 nights’ accommodation
On half-board basis
Travel to the festival
By air travel, with coach transfers in Lisbon
Tournament kit, including event t-shirts
Manage your booking online
Access to our online booking management system
Why not treat yourself to an upgrade?
Want to make your time away more special? Whatever your thoughts are start talking to us and we’ll do everything we can to help.
Get in touch and we’ll discuss your needs
Suggested Accommodation
For the best access to the festival, Ghent City Centre offers a perfect location and will allow you to take part in the festival BBQ and closing party. However, we must warn you that Ghent accommodation is expensive over Easter weekend!
If you’re set on hotels but would prefer a less expensive option, Antwerp is the next best city and is approximately an hour’s drive away.
Hotel Accommodation
- 3 Star Hotel
- Twin, Triple or Quad Rooms (En-suite)
- Bed & Breakfast
Alternatively, many younger groups choose to stay at Center Parcs De Haan, which is situated on the Belgian coast, approximately one hour away from Ghent. Center Parcs is famous for its quality accommodation, leisure activities, restaurants, bars and Aqua Mundo swimming paradises.
Center Parcs De Haan
- 4, 5 or 8 Berth Bungalows
- Choice of Comfort or Premium standard
- All single beds
- Spacious Lounge/Diner with Satellite TV
- Kitchen with Fridge, Hob, Microwave, Toaster and Kettle
- Private patio with outdoor furniture
Book your festival
Like what you see and want to start planning? The best way to get things moving is by speaking to one of our tournament advisors on 01708 565014 or by filling in an enquiry form online.
Things to do in Ghent
Ghent is a beautiful medieval city full of cafes, bars and restaurants to visit. With so much history and ancient architecture, you will enjoy simply walking the streets of the city and taking in the attractions.
Highlights
- Gravensteen Castle
- Cathedral of St Bavo
- Saint Michael’s Church and the Sint-Michielsbrug Bridge
- Graslei Canal
- STAM (Ghent City Museum)
Gravensteen Castle
St. Michael Bridge
Graslei Canal
“The tournament was extra special and we loved the opening and closing ceremonies. The boys felt like they were playing in a World Cup!”
Rishton United
Looking for something
special? Let us build your perfect rugby tour.
Don’t fancy a festival but want to get away as a team? We’ve got you covered! From friendly fixtures to exciting excursions, we’ll offer an unforgettable experience for the whole team.
