Every September, Melbourne transforms into the beating heart of Australian sport. The AFL Grand Final isn’t just a football match—it’s our city’s unofficial national holiday. From the buzz of the Friday parade to the roar of the MCG on game day, the whole town comes alive in black, white, navy, red, and every colour in between.

If you’re a Melburnian, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of AFL Grand Final weekend 2025.

Grand AFL Final Friday – A Public Holiday Made for Footy Fans

In true Melbourne style, the Friday before the big game is a public holiday. This year it lands on Friday, 26 September, giving us all a long weekend to soak up the atmosphere.

Shops and cafés across the CBD open their doors early for pre-parade coffees, while families, diehard fans, and curious first-timers head into the city for one of the weekend’s highlights: the AFL Grand Final Parade.

The AFL Grand Final Parade – Where Melbourne Shines

The parade is more than just players waving from the back of utes—it’s a celebration of footy culture that stretches across generations.

• Start time: Kicks off around 10:30 AM.

• Route: From Melbourne Park Oval, along Batman Avenue and Birrarung Marr, across the William Barak Bridge, and finishing at Yarra Park outside the MCG.

• What to expect: Players from both teams, club mascots, marching bands, floats, and of course, the coveted premiership cup on show.

💡 Local tip: Birrarung Marr gets packed quickly—if you want a front-row spot, aim to arrive at least an hour before kick-off.

The Footy Festival at Yarra Park

Once the parade wraps up, the celebrations continue at the Footy Festival in Yarra Park. It’s free entry and family-friendly, with:

• Food trucks and pop-up bars
• Live music and entertainment
• Kids’ zones with footy activities
• Player meet-and-greets

It’s the perfect option for families who want to be part of the buzz without braving the MCG on game day.

Game Day at the MCG – Saturday, 27 September 2025

The AFL Grand Final itself is the crown jewel of the weekend. Here’s the lowdown:

• Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

• First bounce: 2:30 PM (the traditional daytime start)

Pre-game entertainment: This year, Snoop Dogg takes the stage for a blockbuster performance that’ll fire up the crowd before the siren.

Inside the ‘G, you’ll feel the electricity: the anthem, the colours, the chants, and the roar when the ball is bounced. Even if your team isn’t playing, it’s goosebumps stuff.

Where to Watch Without a Ticket

Let’s be honest—tickets are like gold dust. Luckily, Melbourne knows how to throw a Grand Final party. Here are the best spots to watch:

• Federation Square – Big screen, huge crowd, atmosphere almost as good as the MCG.

• Birrarung Marr & Yarra Park – More screens, food stalls, and family-friendly vibes.

• Local pubs & bars – From The Corner Hotel in Richmond to Brewmanity in Southbank, expect packed houses and cold beers.

• Rooftop bars – For a more laid-back view, places like Imperial Rooftop and Fable bring the game to the skyline.

💡 Local tip: Book a table early if you’re heading to a pub. By Friday night, most popular spots are fully reserved.

Getting Around on Grand Final Weekend

With half of Melbourne heading into the city, transport needs a game plan of its own:

• Trains & Trams: Extra services will run to Richmond and Jolimont stations (both right by the ‘G).

• Driving: Don’t. Parking is scarce, and road closures make it more hassle than it’s worth.

• Walking & Cycling: A great way to get around, especially through the leafy paths of Yarra Park.

• And remember: Melbourne spring can be unpredictable. Pack sunscreen, but don’t leave the poncho at home.

Grand Final Celebrations at Experience Melbourne.

Melbourne really springs into action during the Grand Final weekend and celebrations are spread throughout the city. Federation square features big screen events where people come together to watch matches. Yarra Park, together with MCG, also turns into a fan zone with food trucks, music, and activities of all ages.

It is best enjoyed in local pubs and bars, particularly those in the sporting precinct and the city centre, which pull out the red carpet to offer special game day menus, drinks offers and constant footy camaraderie.  For Melburnians wanting to celebrate with a bite and a beer, spots like Fitzroy, Collingwood, and St Kilda offer great atmospheres and easy access to the festivities.

After the Final Siren

Win or lose, the celebrations don’t stop at the MCG gates. The city comes alive with:

• Live music and after-parties across Southbank, Richmond, and the CBD.

• Club fan zones where supporters gather to keep the energy rolling.

• Plenty of bars and restaurants serve late into the night.

Not Into Footy? Here’s What Else Is On

Not every Melburnian lives for the AFL Grand Final—and that’s okay. For those wanting a quieter weekend, check out:

Local markets like Queen Victoria Market and South Melbourne Market.

Art exhibitions at NGV and ACMI.

Day trips down the coast or up to the Yarra Valley while the city is footy-mad.

Why the AFL Grand Final Matters to Melbourne

The AFL Grand Final is more than a game—it’s a tradition that stitches our city together. It’s kids on shoulders at the parade, families at the Footy Festival, mates yelling at pub screens, and the collective breath we all take when the siren sounds.

Whether you bleed club colours or just love the buzz, Grand Final weekend is Melbourne at its very best.

This September, don’t just watch the AFL Grand Final—live it. From the public holiday and parade to the city-wide celebrations and the showdown at the MCG, it’s a weekend that defines Melbourne.

So grab your scarf, plan your spot, and get ready for the roar. Footy’s biggest stage is set.

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