The AFL, in partnership with the Victorian Government, has announced the return of the Footy Festival at Yarra Park, with new features and events to boot.
Footy Festival, located nearby to the MCG, hosts events and activities for all ages in the lead-up to the AFL Grand Final. It will be held in the days leading up, between Wednesday 25 to Saturday 28 September, with a big screen to broadcast the match on the grand final day.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said the Footy Festival's return was an exciting opportunity to engage all types of supporters.
"We are delighted to once again have the 2024 AFL Footy Festival at Yarra Park and welcome fans from all over the country to immerse themselves in the Grand Final week excitement," Dillon said.
"The footy community have supported the competition in record numbers in 2024 and what better way to celebrate than with the Footy Festival, where they can embrace everything the free festival has to offer. From new fans to the biggest fans, it's a great way to learn more about our great game and engage with it."
The free-entry experience aims to build up grand final anticipation with activities for all ages.
Returning activities include the Coles Healthy Kicks Fitness Zone and Telstra Footy guernsey print press, whilst McDonald's and SOLO have stalls with free food and beverages. 'The Pub', hosted by Carlton Draught, will also be making a comeback to Yarra Park, providing festivalgoers aged 18+ with events including Pub Trivia, music, entertainment and the chance to win grand final tickets.
Schweppes Ice Rink is a new inclusion to 2024's Footy Festival, however a turn on the ice will come at a price of $14.25 inc. booking fee. There will also be player appearances from both AFL and AFLW clubs, and a chance to see the premiership cup up close.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said the festival will help grow anticipation for "the monster clash" on the final Saturday of September.
"Over the four days, there will be no better place to join footy fans of all ages, experiencing the thrill and excitement as we build up to the AFL Grand Final," Dimopoulos said.
For more information on the 2024 Footy Festival and for Schweppes Ice Rink tickets head to footyfestival.afl.
I was wondering what this was – just part of the scam that is the home ground advantage given to the select few vic clubs for the grand final……