Discover the best spots to watch the footy in Melbourne. Lock in some long weekend fun on the Grand Final Day public holiday. Then find the best restaurants to eat before and after the game.

When is the grand final public holiday in 2025?

The public holiday will be on Friday 26 September, the day before the AFL Grand Final. The MCG will once again host the AFL Grand Final, on Saturday 27 September 2025.

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What's open on the grand final long weekend

What's open on the grand final long weekend

The best free and fun events to visit during the AFL Grand Final public holiday

Where to watch the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne

Where to watch the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne

Wondering where to watch the 2025 AFL Grand Final in Melbourne? Try these bars and pubs.

Where to eat near the MCG and Marvel Stadium

Where to eat near the MCG and Marvel Stadium

Heading to a game? Here’s where to stop off for pre or post-event feasting.

Footy fun in Melbourne

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The largest stadium in the southern hemisphere and arguably Australia's sporting mecca.

Marvel Stadium

Marvel Stadium

A multi-purpose stadium in the heart of Melbourne's Docklands precinct.

Sports Precinct Walking Tour
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Sports Precinct Walking Tour

Explore Melbourne's sports precinct on foot with a local guide, including a tour of the MCG.

Australian Sports Museum

Australian Sports Museum

The Australian Sports Museum proudly features the largest sporting collection in the country.

AFL Grand Final: Winner Takes All

AFL Grand Final: Winner Takes All

An all-star panel of experts reflect on the year and preview the 2025 AFL Grand Final.

MCG Tours

MCG Tours

Take a guided tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

More footy dining inspo

Melbourne’s best old-school pubs and bars

Melbourne’s best old-school pubs and bars

Sip your way back in time and soak in the atmosphere at these historic establishments.

The best pies in Melbourne

The best pies in Melbourne

Buttery pastry and tasty fillings: here's where to find Melbourne's best pies.

Melbourne’s best pub deals

Melbourne’s best pub deals

Find Melbourne's best parma deals, steak nights and cheap pub eats.

Melbourne's best beer gardens

Melbourne's best beer gardens

Soak up the sunshine with riverside cocktails and ales among historic architecture.

Only In The City

Things you can only do in the city

Things you can only do in the city

There's only one place to find these rare Melbourne experiences and secret spots.

Only in the City

Only in the City

This city hums with energy - with hidden laneway cafes, rooftop bars, art and culture at every turn.

Melbourne’s most Instagrammable experiences

Melbourne’s most Instagrammable experiences

You won't need filters at the city's most photogenic spots.

Discover more

ISO 1v1 Basketball Tournament

ISO 1v1 Basketball Tournament

The world’s only full-court 1v1 hoops fest featuring prizes, music, fashion and streetball legends.

AFL Finals Series: Geelong v Brisbane Lions

AFL Finals Series: Geelong v Brisbane Lions

Watch the action live as Cats take on the Lions in a qualifying final set to be thriller.

AFLW Indigenous Round: Carlton v Western Bulldogs

AFLW Indigenous Round: Carlton v Western Bulldogs

Enjoy all the action live as Carlton take on Western Bulldogs in an afternoon of footy.

Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival

Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival

The Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival has already sold out, but you can still cheer on participants.