Melbourne’s heart beats loudest at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, and on Friday, May 23, 2025, the city will pulse with pride for Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025, the AFL’s iconic clash between Essendon and Richmond. This blockbuster event, a highlight of the Sir Doug Nicholls Round, is more than a footy match—it’s a vibrant celebration of Indigenous heritage, uniting Melburnians in sport and reconciliation. With a historic shift to a prime-time Friday night slot, Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025 promises an unforgettable night of culture, community, and fierce competition under the MCG’s dazzling lights. Here’s why this event is a must for every Melburnian, from die-hard footy fans to those eager to embrace Indigenous stories.

The Cultural Heart of Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025

The 2025 edition of Dreamtime at the ‘G festival serves as an important homage to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander involvement in Australian football while honoring the inspirational vision of Essendon legend Michael Long. The 2005 inception of this match derives its moniker from the Aboriginal mythological concept of Dreamtime which represents both creation and connection. The 2025 edition of Dreamtime at the ‘G commemorates thirty years since Michael Long defended Aboriginal heritage through the Peek Rule in 1995 which makes this occasion significant for reconciling Melbourne.

The main attraction of the event includes The Long Walk which lets the community walk from Federation Square across Melbourne’s downtown city area to the MCG. People follow Michael Long as he leads the event from 6:10 PM bringing together school groups and local residents and visitors as well as others who benefit from the Friday start time. Local residents of Melbourne can become part of large crowds who walk across the Yarra River to celebrate unity on Wurundjeri Woiwurrung land. The Community Ticketing Program of the AFL increases its reach by giving out more than 7,000 tickets to Indigenous communities thus making their voices heard at the ‘G.

The MCG serves as a cultural stage through Dreamtime at the ’G 2025. A moving Welcome to Country ceremony by Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Colin Hunter Jnr begins the event before performances by Djirri Djirri Dance Group and Bandok Tati that are narrated by Yorta Yorta/Wurundjeri rapper Briggs. The Melbourne displays Traditional Custodian recognition through combinations of Indigenous artwork on guernseys alongside banners as well as Touch Screen displays throughout stadiums. Local people can experience cultural participation at the city’s landmark facility through a combination of patriotism and modern development.

A Fierce Footy Rivalry – Essendon vs. Richmond

The Essendon-Richmond rivalry is the beating heart of Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025, delivering edge-of-your-seat action that electrifies Melbourne’s footy faithful. With Richmond leading the Dreamtime record (12 wins to Essendon’s 8), every clash is a battle for bragging rights. Memorable moments—like Essendon’s heart-stopping one-point win in 2023, sealed by Sam Durham’s clutch goal, or Richmond’s nail-biting two-point triumph in 2006—prove this match thrives on drama.

The Kevin Sheedy Cup, named after the legendary coach of both clubs, and the Yiooken Award for best-on-ground add prestige. Past Yiooken winners like Richmond’s Dustin Martin (twice) and Essendon’s Zach Merrett embody the match’s intensity. In 2025, expect stars like Essendon’s Jake Stringer and Richmond’s Shai Bolton to light up the MCG, with Round 11 form promising a tight contest. Melbourne’s footy culture thrives on these blockbusters, and with crowds averaging 70,000 (peaking at 85,656 in 2017), the ‘G will roar with red, black, and yellow passion.

For Melburnians, Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025 is a pilgrimage to the spiritual home of footy. Whether you’re a Bombers diehard from Moonee Ponds or a Tigers fan from Richmond’s Punt Road, this match delivers the raw emotion and tribal loyalty that define Melbourne’s AFL obsession.

What to Expect at Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025

Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025 is a sensory feast, blending world-class entertainment with elite sport. Gates open at 2:15 PM, kicking off with a VFL curtain-raiser (Richmond vs. Essendon at 2:35 PM), perfect for early birds soaking up the Yarra Park vibe. The Long Walk arrives at 6:10 PM, followed by pre-match entertainment at 7:00 PM, featuring Indigenous dance, music, and a Dreamtime Ceremony by both clubs at 7:34 PM. Halftime brings beats from DJ Cyril, keeping the energy high.

The MCG will dazzle with cultural displays, including Indigenous guernseys designed by artists like Essendon’s 2023 creators Momo Willcox and Jackie Sinclair or Richmond’s Shai Bolton in 2020. These guernseys, sold to support programs like Richmond’s Korin Gamadji Institute, tell stories of Country and community. Fans can explore cultural stalls, enjoy food trucks, and visit the Australian Sports Museum at half-price, making it a family-friendly day in Melbourne’s sporting precinct.

Practical tips: The match starts at 7:40 PM, with tickets via Ticketek (MCC members from April 29, 2025). Public transport is key—catch trams to Jolimont or trains to Richmond Station, as parking is limited. Be aware of flashing lights and pyrotechnics during performances. For premium experiences, MCG Corporate Boxes offer luxury, ideal for impressing clients or celebrating with mates. Melbourne’s accessibility and vibrant atmosphere make Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025 unmissable.

Why Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025 Matters to Melbourne

Melbourne is the undisputed capital of Australian sport, and Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025 is its crown jewel, weaving footy with cultural significance. The MCG, nestled in the city’s sporting heart, becomes a beacon of reconciliation, drawing Melburnians from Brunswick to Bayside. The event inspires local initiatives, like school groups joining The Long Walk or guernsey sales funding Indigenous youth programs, embedding pride in the community.

The Friday night broadcast on Seven Network, Foxtel, and Kayo will beam Melbourne’s cultural leadership to millions, showcasing the city as a hub of diversity and inclusion. For locals, it’s a chance to rally behind Essendon or Richmond while honoring Indigenous heritage, reinforcing Melbourne’s role as a progressive, footy-mad metropolis.

Join the Celebration at Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025

Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025 is where Melbourne’s soul shines brightest. On May 23, 2025, the MCG will pulse with the energy of 70,000 fans, the rhythm of Indigenous performances, and the thrill of Essendon vs. Richmond. Walk with The Long Walk, cheer under the ‘G’s lights, and celebrate the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This is more than a game—it’s Melbourne at its finest, uniting culture, sport, and community. Grab your tickets, don your scarf, and be part of history at Dreamtime at the ‘G 2025.

Event Details

• Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
• Time: 7:40 PM (gates open 2:15 PM)
• Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Brunton Ave, Richmond VIC 3002
• Tickets: Via Ticketek; MCC member sales from April 29, 2025
• Broadcast: Seven Network, Foxtel, Kayo

Key Moments:

• 6:10 PM: The Long Walk from Federation Square
• 7:00 PM: Pre-match entertainment with Briggs, Djirri Djirri, Bandok Tati
• 7:34 PM: Dreamtime Ceremony
• Halftime: DJ Cyril performance
• Getting There: Trams to Jolimont, trains to Richmond/Jolimont stations; limited parking, use public transport.

By Everything in Melbourne