Last Updated on 2025 年 6 月 11 日 by 総合編集組
2025 AFL Grand Final: Key Highlights and Travel Guide
The 2025 Australian Football League (AFL) Grand Final, set for September 27 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), is more than just a championship game—it’s a cultural phenomenon that transforms Melbourne into a vibrant festival hub.
This comprehensive guide highlights eight essential aspects of the event, from understanding the sport’s unique rules to navigating ticket purchases, pre-game festivities, and exploring Melbourne’s cultural and natural attractions. Tailored for international visitors, this summary ensures you’re ready to immerse yourself in Australia’s premier sporting event.
Understanding Australian Rules Football
Australian Rules Football, affectionately called “Footy,” is a fast-paced, contact sport played on an oval field with 22 players per team (18 on-field). Originating in mid-19th century Melbourne, it draws inspiration from Indigenous games like Marngrook and early cricket activities. The game’s objective is to score by kicking the ball through goalposts: a Goal(6 points) is scored when the ball passes untouched between two tall inner posts, while a Behind (1 point) occurs if the ball hits a post, is touched, or crosses between the inner and shorter outer posts.
Players advance the ball via kicking, handballing (punching the ball), or running (bouncing or touching the ground every 15 meters). Key features include Marks, where a player catches a ball kicked over 15 meters for a free kick, and the spectacular Specky—a high-flying mark often involving leaping over opponents. Tackling is permitted between the shoulders and knees, but holding the ball too long results in a Holding the Ball penalty. The game’s dynamic rules balance high-intensity action with strategic pauses, making it thrilling yet tactically rich.
Event Details: Date, Venue, and Teams
The 2025 AFL Grand Final will take place on September 27, 2025, at the MCG, known as “The ‘G,” with a capacity of over 100,000 spectators. The match kicks off at 2:30 PM AEST, maintaining the traditional daytime slot cherished by fans. The event caps a four-week finals series, where the top eight teams from the regular season compete. Top-four teams get a “double chance,” while lower-ranked teams must win consecutive high-stakes games. Analysts predict strong contenders like Geelong, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Fremantle, and Sydney, promising a fierce battle for the premiership.
Ticketing: Securing Your Spot
Tickets for the AFL Grand Final are highly competitive. Public tickets, managed by Ticketek, sell out quickly, so register early for updates and prepare multiple devices for the sale. For a guaranteed and premium experience, hospitality packages through providers like Premium Seats or The Golden Ticket offer exclusive seating, gourmet dining (e.g., at Nobu), and access to events like the “Before the Bounce” or “Crown Grand Final Breakfast.” Post-game celebrations at the Toyota LandCruiser Grand Final Village are often included. Early booking is crucial to avoid scams and secure your place.
Pre-Game Festivities: A City-Wide Celebration
The Grand Final week kicks off with Grand Final Eve on September 26, 2025, a public holiday in Victoria, allowing fans to dive into the excitement without work or school commitments. The AFL Grand Final Parade, starting at 9:00 AM with entertainment and 10:30 AM for the parade, winds through Melbourne Park, Birrarung Marr, and Yarra Park, ending at the MCG. Fans can interact with players and view the premiership cup, with large screens enhancing the experience.
The Footy Festival at Yarra Park offers free family-friendly entertainment, including player appearances, live music, food trucks, and licensed bars. The premiership cup is displayed for photos, creating memorable moments. Note that this festival differs from the April “Macca’s Footy Festival” tied to the AFL’s Gather Round.
Entertainment: Music and Atmosphere
The Grand Final is renowned for its world-class pre-game and halftime entertainment. While the 2025 lineup is pending, rumors suggest the Foo Fighters may perform, following stars like Katy Perry (2024) and Robbie Williams (2022). These performances add a concert-like vibe, elevating the event’s appeal beyond sports.
Alternative Viewing Options
For those without MCG tickets, Melbourne’s vibrant pub scene offers lively alternatives. Venues like the Imperial Hotel(CBD), London Tavern (north), Hawthorn Hotel (east), College Lawn Hotel (south), and The Royal Standard Hotel(west) host Grand Final parties with large screens, food specials, and post-game entertainment. Family-friendly spots like mini-golf courses and ice cream shops also join the festivities with themed activities.
Logistics: Accommodation and Transport
Accommodation near the MCG is ideal for convenience:
- East Melbourne: Steps from the MCG, with options like Pullman Melbourne on the Park (0.47 km away) and Knightsbridge Apartments (0.58 km).
- Cremorne: Close to the MCG and AAMI Park, e.g., 381 Cremorne (0.78 km).
- Richmond: Vibrant with excellent transport, e.g., 113 Hoddle (0.96 km).
- Melbourne CBD, Southbank, and South Yarra offer diverse options with easy tram access, while Doncaster (30-minute drive) suits those seeking quieter stays.
Transport: Public transport (trains and trams) is the most reliable way to reach the MCG due to road closures on streets like Brunton Avenue and limited parking. Arrive early to manage crowds and security checks. The MCG uses Evolv contactless security and is cashless, so bring a card for purchases.
Beyond the Game: Exploring Melbourne
Melbourne’s cultural scene shines in September. Explore laneways filled with street art, visit world-class museums, or savor the city’s culinary diversity, including the iconic meat pie, a Grand Final staple drizzled with tomato sauce. Day trips enhance your visit:
- Yarra Valley: Wineries, gourmet food, and scenic beauty.
- Phillip Island: Watch little penguins waddle home at sunset.
- Great Ocean Road: Iconic Twelve Apostles and coastal views.
- Grampians National Park: Hiking and wildlife, including kangaroos.
Final Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
- Plan Early: Book tickets and accommodation months in advance.
- Use Public Transport: Avoid parking hassles and road closures.
- Arrive Early: Account for security and crowds at the MCG.
- Embrace the Culture: Wear team colors, try a meat pie, and join the parade or Footy Festival.
- Explore Beyond: Combine the Grand Final with Melbourne’s cultural and regional attractions for a holistic Australian adventure.
The 2025 AFL Grand Final is more than a game—it’s a celebration of Australia’s spirit, uniting fans in a shared passion. Whether at the MCG or a local pub, this guide equips you to make unforgettable memories in Melbourne.
