Murrayfield capture the magic
The relocation of the famous League weekend to the 67,000 seater stadium, which follows a two year agreement between Super League (Europe), Scottish Rugby and other local partners, means that Edinburgh will stage top class Rugby League for the first time since the 2002 Challenge Cup Final.
The Magic Weekend is the latest of several major events announced by Scottish Rugby which includes a pre-season friendly match between FC Barcelona and Hibernian later this month and the 2009 Heineken Cup Final next May. The final leg of Emirates Airline international 7s series is also held at Murrayfield in May.
Gordon McKie, Scottish Rugby's Chief Executive, said: "We are thrilled to have secured another major sporting event for Murrayfield and Edinburgh, again underlining Scottish Rugby's commitment to hosting world class premium events at the Stadium."
The decision which was made by the engage Super League clubs means that supporters can look forward to a bigger and better carnival experience next year with a greater choice of accommodation and restaurants as well as an improved entertainment programme thanks to the world-class facilities in and around Murrayfield stadium.
Paul Bush, Chief Operating Officer of EventScotland, welcomed the news and said: "The securing of Rugby League's showpiece weekend for the next two years is a fantastic coup and testament to the strength of partnership shown by ourselves, Scottish Rugby, City of Edinburgh Council, VisitScotland and the Edinburgh Convention Bureau.
"The event has proven to be a huge success over the last couple of years in Cardiff, and with estimates of the economic impact standing in the region of £10million for 2008; we aim to continue building on this success going forward.
"With Scotland extending an invite through its Year of Homecoming to those with an affinity to the country to return 'home' in 2009, May 2009 provides the perfect opportunity for rugby fans to combine a trip to Scotland with the opportunity to see world-class rugby played on a world-class stage."
Steve Cardownie, City of Edinburgh Festivals and Events Champion, echoed those sentiments and said: "Edinburgh is held in the highest regard all over the world and our reputation for hosting major events get stronger every year.
"Edinburgh's rugby credentials are second to none so this is fantastic news for the city. The many rugby league fans who make their way here can be sure of a warm welcome and a fantastic time."
Visit Scotland, Director of Visitor Engagement, Malcolm Roughead, OBE stated: "VisitScotland is delighted to support the Scottish Rugby and its partners in bringing Rugby League to Edinburgh.
"Edinburgh's appeal as a destination and the easy accessibility of the city for visitors make it the perfect location to spend a weekend enjoying the sights and sounds of the city and the rugby during what promises to be a festival of rugby in May 2009."
Tickets will go on general sale to the public on Tuesday 15 July from the Murrayfield ticket centre on 0131 346 5015 or www.scottishrugby.org or via www.ticketmaster.co.uk on 0844 847 1737 or 0044 161 385 1476.
One day tickets are priced at £15, £25, £35 and £5, £10 and £15 for concessions (Under 17s, OAP's and students).
Two day tickets are priced at £25, £40, £50 and £20, £15 and £10 concessions (Under 17s, OAP's and students).
Tickets may be subject to booking fees.
Scottish based fans can also purchase tickets in person from Scottish Rugby's Ticket Centre at Murrayfield.