Twitch Takes Over Twickenham
Twitch is a global live video site with a growing community where millions of people come together live every day to chat, interact, and make their own entertainment together. In the age of global esports, gaming, and video blogging, Twitch is for the next generation, and they care deeply for their community.
That is why Twitch empowers passionate users who organize MeetUps for their local community, via their Community MeetUps, Powered by Twitch program. Included in their 46 chapters is a London chapter, who hosted an event at Twickenham one weekend during the summer of 2019. This was a chance to bring together over 1,500 people that typically interact digitally to let them have some fun face-to-face and IRL in an event environment. It was, first and foremost, a community gathering - a chance for everyone to unwind and enjoy a colourful party Twitch-style and a chance to recognise many of the people in the community for their contributions. They included entertainment, the opportunity to meet some of London's top streamers and influencers, and of course lots of free activities for fans to interact with.
As a venue choice for the event, the London Community MeetUps chapter decided to take over Twickenham Stadium. The stadium is already gaining a reputation as a hub for esports and gaming, so it was a great chance to introduce it to the local community of Twitch users. The attendees arrived in the West Stand and entered through the Rose and Poppy Gates before heading pitch-side to celebrate within the stadium itself and enjoy a delicious barbecue including wood-fired pizzas. DJ's, colourful theming, and a chance to stand outside in the sun (perfect for those selfies next to the hallowed turf) on what was a scorching weekend in the UK capital, all of which really brought the event to life.
"Wherever we can, we love to bring our community together in-person to say thank you and give them the recognition we think they deserve," commented Sophie Bello, one of the London Community MeetUps organizers. "When we do, we want them to really feel like a part of the Twitch community. Working with Twickenham to create a seamless event, we were able to have some fun, create some colour, and give streamers the chance to spend time with the people that make their channels what they are. It was a great weekend."