Every October the town of Houghton le Spring comes alive with colour, history and celebration as the Houghton Feast takes over our streets. With its roots stretching back more than 900 years, the Feast is one of the oldest surviving community festivals in the North East and it remains as important to us today as it was centuries ago.

For Houghton Rugby Club the Feast is not just another date in the calendar. It represents the spirit of community, tradition and togetherness that defines both our town and our club.

A Shared History

Houghton Feast began with the generosity of Bernard Gilpin, the Apostle of the North, who famously roasted an ox to feed the townsfolk. That act of community spirit still underpins the Feast today and it echoes the values we hold dear at Houghton RUFC including generosity, inclusion and coming together to share in something bigger than ourselves.

Bringing People Together

The Feast brings families, schools, local groups and businesses out into the heart of Houghton. For us as a rugby club it is a chance to reconnect with our wider community, introduce new people to the sport and celebrate what it means to belong to this town. Whether it is through our juniors marching in the parades, our members volunteering or simply welcoming new faces to the club, the Feast strengthens the ties between us and the people we represent.

Looking Forward while Respecting Tradition

Just as the Feast has adapted over the centuries from medieval fair to modern day carnival, so too has Houghton Rugby Club. We are proud of our long history but we are also focused on the future with projects such as the Big Build creating new facilities for the next generation of players. Taking part in the Houghton Feast reminds us that while times change, tradition and community remain at the core of everything we do.

Why It Matters to Us

For Houghton Rugby Club the Feast is more than a celebration. It is a reminder of our roots, our identity and our responsibility to give back to the town that has supported us since 1873. It is a moment in the year when the whole community comes together and we are proud to be part of that story.

So when the music plays, the rides spin, the ox roasts and the fireworks light up the sky, remember that the Houghton Feast 2025 is not just about looking back, but about celebrating the strength of our community today. Houghton RUFC is honoured to play its part.

Find Out More

If you would like to find out more details about this years feast, and what we have going on at our club please follow us on social media or email us at info@houghtonrugby.com.