Friday Before the AFL Grand Final 2025 in Australia

The Friday before the AFL Grand Final is a public holiday in Victoria, giving fans time to celebrate and build excitement ahead of the big game. The day features the popular AFL Grand Final Parade in Melbourne, drawing large crowds and media attention.

Friday Before the AFL Grand Final: A Public Holiday?

The Friday before the AFL Grand Final is a public holiday in Victoria. Most businesses, offices, and schools in the state close for the day, allowing people to enjoy the festivities, including the Grand Final Parade and community celebrations.

Friday Before the AFL Grand Final

The Friday before the AFL Grand Final became a public holiday in Victoria in 2015, and the state government introduced it to celebrate the significance of Australian Rules Football. The idea was to give fans a chance to enjoy the build-up to the biggest game of the AFL season and to support tourism and local businesses through community events and activities.

Before it was a public holiday, the day was still popular among fans, especially in Melbourne, as it included the AFL Grand Final Parade. Making it an official day off allowed more people to take part in the celebrations. Although the holiday is only observed in Victoria, it has become a major part of Grand Final week. It reflects the cultural importance of AFL in the state and the passion Australians have for their homegrown sport.

Observance of Friday Before the AFL Grand Final in Australia

The Friday before the AFL Grand Final is a festive day in Victoria, full of excitement and anticipation. The main event is the AFL Grand Final Parade held in Melbourne's city center. Thousands of fans line the streets to see the two competing teams as players, coaches, and mascots travel in open vehicles and greet supporters. The parade creates a buzzing atmosphere and brings together fans of all ages to celebrate the spirit of footy.

Many families and friends use the day to gather, wear their team colors, and enjoy footy-themed activities. Community events, barbecues, and live music are common across the state. Some workplaces and schools hold footy dress-up days earlier in the week, adding to the excitement leading into the public holiday. Media coverage is strong, with footy shows and radio stations broadcasting special segments throughout the day.

The holiday is important because it recognizes how deeply AFL is woven into Victoria's culture. It brings people together, supports local businesses, and strengthens community pride. For many, it is more than just a lead-up to the Grand Final—it is a celebration of local identity and sporting tradition. While it has faced some debate over its economic impact, the day remains widely enjoyed by fans and families alike. The Friday before the AFL Grand Final continues to grow in popularity each year, cementing its place as a unique and much-loved public holiday in Australia's sporting calendar.

Friday Before the AFL Grand Final Observances