This landmark occasion forms part of the phased opening of the expansion, with a series of public and private test events designed to assess key operational elements of the facility.
Subject to the new areas successfully passing initial internal checks, the event on Wednesday, 20th May, will operate at 50% of the additional seating capacity, allowing more than 3,500 fans to attend.
Should the test event be successful, the next phase will see us trial 100% capacity at the final Premier League home match of the season against Aston Villa. Hospitality areas, the fan zone and the wider Medlock Square development will open later in 2026.
To ensure that more than 7,000 extra fans can attend this match, we need 3,500 or more fans to attend the 50% capacity event so we can complete the necessary checks. We are therefore encouraging everyone to play their part by attending a special evening of entertainment – and to be among the first to experience the expanded North Stand.
Fans can enjoy appearances from former players, live music, family-friendly activities, photo opportunities with the Carabao Cup trophy and chances to win ‘money-can’t-buy’ prizes.
The event will run from 6pm to 8pm, with complimentary parking available on site. Tickets go on sale at 2pm tomorrow (Friday 1st May) for Season Ticket Members and Seasonal Hospitality Members, priced at £5 for adults and £3 for Under 18s.
A ticket includes a free food item and a soft drink or alcoholic beverage, which – unlike on a typical Men’s matchday – can be enjoyed from seats within the stadium bowl.
Commenting on the first public event in the expanded North Stand, Danny Wilson, Managing Director – Manchester City Operations, said:
“After years of planning and construction, we’re getting close to using the expanded general admission seating section of the North Stand – a significant moment in the history of this Club that will see us break the Etihad Stadium’s record matchday attendance.
“Our aim has always been to open the new general admission seating before the end of the 2025/26 season. To do this, we must host a number of test events, with the evening of entertainment on Wednesday 20th playing a vital role. We hope more than 3,500 fans will join us, enjoy the evening with friends and family, and be the first to experience the expanded North Stand.”
Further information regarding potential tickets for the final home match of the season will be shared in due course.
