The family-friendly Bantams in the Courtyard FanZone returns to Darley Street Market this August for Bradford City AFC’s 2026/27 season, following a successful trial in partnership with the club last season. The FanZone will return to the city centre venue before every Saturday home game, with a 3pm kick-off.
The season opens on Saturday 8 August with a collaboration with Kingdom Wrestling, as we previously reported. After that opening event, the FanZone will run from 12noon to 2.30pm on match Saturdays, with further dates confirmed for 15 August, 5 September and 26 September. A full list of times and dates will be posted on the Bradford Markets website and social media channels, with further updates — including the musical line-up — to follow.
This season’s FanZones will also see the return of outdoor bars from Northern Monk, which runs the bar space at Darley Street Kitchen, and Molson Coors. Northern Monk will once again serve its beers, including its lager Take Me Home. The FanZones will also feature a basketball game, free face-painting, and highlights from previous matches on the big screen.
Gaming, food and drink
Alongside the activities in the Courtyard, there will be gaming and further food and drink options in Darley Street Kitchen, on the market’s top floor. On match days without a FanZone, such as some Tuesdays, food and drink is still available from the Street Kitchen before kick-off.
Previous highlights of the FanZone have included interviews with former players, football street skills, and fans singing along to live music, including sets by local band The Good Citizens.
Councillor Ian Walker, Bradford Council’s executive member for neighbourhoods and communities, said: “The Bantams FanZones proved really popular last season with people coming together and enjoying the live music and entertainment. They are family-friendly and all are welcome. It’s free to attend and you can just turn up on the day. Come down, have fun and soak up the pre-match atmosphere and make Darley Street Market part of your home game Saturday ritual.”
For information about events and activities at markets across the Bradford district, visit BradfordMarkets.com.
