Yarra Park near the MCG has been transformed into the centre of the AFL universe for the next four days, with the annual Footy Festival kicking off ahead of Saturday’s Grand Final.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today joined AFL CEO Andrew Dillon to launch the 2024 Footy Festival – a jam-packed event with entertainment for footy fans of all ages ahead of Saturday’s clash between the Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions.
With only days before the season’s final game at the G’, more than 250,000 fans are expected to flock to Melbourne for this week’s events as the city gears into Grand Final mode – with fans from New South Wales and Queensland flying in to join the fun.
This year’s festival features an ice-skating rink, player appearances, giveaways, the AFL Play Zone, plus food trucks showcasing the very best of our state’s food and drink offering.
For the first time, the festival will go into the night with live music and dinner served up by signature Melbourne restaurants Easey’s, Hella Good and Pinchy’s.
Friday’s main event will be the annual AFL Grand Final Parade, which follows an exciting new route this year and takes fans through Melbourne and Olympic Park.
People travelling into the MCG for the Footy Festival and the Grand Final Parade will be able to use the extended free tram zone, making it easier to get to the Festival from the CBD.
More information on the Footy Festival can be found at afl.com.au/footy-festival.