Get ready for an unforgettable AFL Grand Final experience! The 2024 Grand Final Parade is set to be bigger and better than ever, bringing footy fans closer to their sporting idols than ever before. Thanks to the support of the Allan Labor Government, this year’s parade promises a truly unique experience.
The parade, kicking off at 10:30 am on Friday, September 27th, will journey through the heart of Melbourne’s sporting district. Starting at Melbourne Park Oval, players and coaches will travel by motorcade, crossing the Tanderrum Bridge to Birrarung Marr, continuing over William Barak Bridge to the MCG. The grand finale? The AFL’s free Footy Festival in Yarra Park.
Building on the success of last year’s parade, the 2024 edition will utilize Melbourne Park even more, featuring a stage on the western side of the oval, offering a fantastic viewing spot for fans to see the Grand Final teams make their way to the MCG. A large screen will ensure that every fan, no matter where they’re standing, can see their favorite players on stage.
The Footy Festival, beginning on Wednesday, September 25th at Yarra Park, will offer even more entertainment for fans leading up to the big game. This year’s festival will include an ice rink for kids and families, alongside various other activities and activations to create an electric atmosphere ahead of the Grand Final.
In addition to the parade and festival, seven AFLW matches will be played across Victoria before the Grand Final, showcasing some of the best women’s footy talent. Venues include Punt Road, Windy Hill, Kardinia Park, Swinburne Centre, Ikon Park, RSEA Park, and Whitten Oval.
The 2024 AFL season has been one of the most competitive on record, with thrilling finals matchups, including a packed MCG elimination final between the Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn, drawing nearly 98,000 fans.
The Grand Final Parade is part of Victoria’s bustling major events calendar, contributing to the state’s $39.3 billion visitor economy. Other marquee events include the Melbourne Cup Carnival, Australian Open, Formula 1 Grand Prix, and Boxing Day Test.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said:
“This year’s Grand Final Parade will be bigger and better, with unmatched access to players and coaches, right in the heart of the sporting capital. Grand Final Eve is a fantastic opportunity for families to come together and celebrate everything that makes the AFL Grand Final such an important event for our state.”Australian Football League CEO Andrew Dillon said:
“Each year we are looking to deliver a more fan and family friendly event and create better viewing opportunities for the Toyota AFL Grand Final Parade goers who are enjoying the Grand Final week festivities and the public holiday in Victoria. The new route through Melbourne Park Precinct, Birrarung Marr into the Footy Festival creates more viewing opportunities and allows more people to cheer on their favourite players as the Toyota HiLux vehicles go past.”Don’t miss the Grand Final Parade, starting at 10:30 am on Friday, September 27th, for a spectacular build-up to the biggest game of the season!
