AFL Grand Final Friday is an official state-wide public holiday observed across Victoria, celebrating the state's deep cultural passion for Australian Rules Football. Held annually on the Friday before the spectacular AFL Grand Final match, this dedicated holiday creates a massive long weekend, closing schools, banks, and public infrastructure so millions of footy fans can immerse themselves in the final celebrations of the sporting calendar.
Victoria AFL Grand Final Friday Public Holiday Schedule & Football Traditions
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sep 25 | Fri | AFL Grand Final Friday | VIC |
| 2027 | Sep 24 | Fri | AFL Grand Final Friday | VIC |
| 2028 | Sep 29 | Fri | AFL Grand Final Friday | VIC |
Visit australia.com for the original release.
How is AFL Grand Final Friday Celebrated in Australia?
As a hallmark event that completely takes over the city of Melbourne, Grand Final Friday blends massive street parades with public fan festivals and highly anticipated long-weekend social gatherings.
The Grand Final Parade
The centerpiece attraction is the iconic AFL Grand Final Parade moving through the heart of Melbourne. Tens of thousands of screaming fans line the streets to cheer on the competing players and coaches as they ride in open-top vehicles towards the MCG precinct.
Footy Festival Hubs
Yarra Park and the areas surrounding the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) transform into a massive, free public Footy Festival. Families flock to the lawns to enjoy interactive kick-to-kick zones, player appearances, live broadcast stages, and pop-up food trucks.
Long Weekend Barbecues
For those not attending the city parade, the Friday holiday serves as the perfect launchpad for home social events. Friends and families gather in backyards and local venues across the state to host barbecues, discuss game statistics, and proudly wear their team colours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, AFL Grand Final Friday is a regional state public holiday exclusive to Victoria. All other Australian states and territories continue regular business and corporate operations during this Friday.
In 2026, AFL Grand Final Friday falls on Friday, September 25. For the 2027 calendar year, the holiday will take place on Friday, September 24. In 2028, the official state holiday will be observed on Friday, September 29. The holiday is tied to the Friday immediately preceding the last Saturday in September (or first Saturday in October if the AFL schedule shifts).
AFL Grand Final Friday was officially introduced as a permanent statutory public holiday by the Victorian State Government in 2015. It was created to allow Victorian workers and families a dedicated day to celebrate the state's signature sporting code.