AFL’s Gather Round Is Back and Bigger Than Ever

• AFL Gather Round brings all 18 teams to one location, creating a festival-like footy experience.
• This year’s event features expanded venues, themed match days, and live entertainment.
• Fans can enhance their experience with early planning, travel tips, and access to family-friendly zones.
• Beyond the games, it’s a celebration of footy culture, community, and connection across Australia.

There’s something magical about a weekend when every AFL club hits the same turf, and fans from all corners of the country gather to celebrate the game they love. That’s exactly what Gather Round is all about—and this year, it’s set to be even bigger, better, and more action-packed than ever before.

Last year’s inaugural event exceeded expectations, drawing record crowds and showcasing the true spirit of Aussie Rules football. It wasn't just about the games—it was about the shared energy in the air, the fan zones buzzing with excitement, and the unforgettable moments that only come when you bring a whole league into one electric location.

Now, as the league prepares to roll it out again with even more bells and whistles, footy lovers are gearing up for an experience that promises more games, more entertainment, and more ways to connect with their favourite teams and players. Whether you were there last year or are joining for the first time, Gather Round 2025 is shaping up to be unmissable.

What Is AFL Gather Round and Why Fans Love It

Think of Gather Round as a festival of footy. Instead of spreading matches out across the country as usual, every game in the round takes place in one region over a long weekend. That means fans have the rare chance to watch multiple games live, often back-to-back, with all 18 AFL clubs in town and ready to put on a show.

It’s a concept borrowed from other sporting codes but adapted in a way that feels uniquely Australian. The 2024 event showed just how well it fits into the AFL calendar—stadiums packed with supporters in rival colours, kids with team flags in one hand and hot chips in the other, and a vibe that turned a standard round into a true celebration.

What makes Gather Round really special, though, is its ability to bring fans together. Die-hards and casual watchers alike mingle in the stands, chat in merch lines, and bond over their shared love of the game. It’s a reminder that beyond the tackles and goals, footy is about community.

How to Be Part of the Action This Year

With anticipation already building, now’s the time to start making plans. Gather Round might only take up one weekend, but the best experiences go to those who are ready early. From stadium seats with perfect views to close-to-the-action fan zones, getting your spot locked in ahead of time makes all the difference.

If you want to get ready for AFL Gather Round with official tickets, the earlier you start, the better your options. Demand is expected to surge this year, especially with new additions and enhanced features being announced. Whether you’re after general admission or premium experiences, securing your place now will set you up for a weekend without stress.

For those travelling from interstate or rural areas, consider bundling your tickets with accommodation or transport packages. Many providers offer deals that simplify the whole process—and let’s be honest, nobody wants to scramble for a last-minute hotel room when thousands of fans are descending on the same city.

And don’t forget the extras. Beyond the games, there’ll be concerts, meet-and-greets, and heaps of community events. Planning ahead lets you choose the experiences that matter most to you and your crew. After all, Gather Round isn’t just a spectator event—it’s something to dive into headfirst.

What’s New for This Year’s Gather Round

If last year set the bar, this year’s Gather Round is ready to launch it sky-high. The AFL has taken everything that worked—and added more. We’re talking new venues, fresh activations, and a few surprises that are sure to get fans buzzing.

One of the biggest changes? Expansion. With the overwhelming response in 2024, this year’s edition will include additional matches in surrounding regional hubs, not just the central city. That means more opportunities for locals outside the metro area to be part of the action—and for visitors to explore new destinations while catching their favourite teams live.

There’s also a greater focus on entertainment beyond the siren. Live music performances are being scheduled around the grounds, with a mix of big-name acts and local favourites. Think of it as a mini music festival running alongside the games. On top of that, interactive zones for families, footy clinics for kids, and late-night food trucks are all being dialled up a notch.

Another exciting twist? Themed match days. Expect throwback uniforms, crowd costume competitions, and pre-game activities that celebrate club heritage in fun, unexpected ways. Whether you’re there for the footy, the fun, or a bit of both, 2025’s Gather Round is pulling out all the stops.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Gather Round Experience

You’ve got your ticket, sorted your travel, and circled the dates on the calendar. Now comes the fun part—getting the most out of the weekend.

First up, arrive early. The stadium precincts will be pumping with energy well before the first bounce. From sponsor giveaways to exclusive merch drops, there’s always something happening outside the gates. Plus, you’ll avoid the big crowds and have time to settle in before game time.

Make a plan, but keep it flexible. With so much on offer, it’s tempting to try and do it all. Instead, pick your must-sees—maybe it’s the rivalry match, maybe it’s the fan forum with your club’s legends—and build around that. Leave room for those spontaneous moments too, like a pop-up signing or a surprise half-time show.

If you’re travelling with kids, check out the family zones. These areas are designed for younger fans, with activities, shaded areas, and chill-out spots to keep everyone happy between games. And for the grown-ups, there are plenty of spots to grab a bite or a brew while still keeping an eye on the scoreboard.

Lastly, embrace the community vibe. Chat with fans from other clubs, join the chants, and swap predictions. Gather Round isn’t just about your team—it’s about being part of something bigger. The more you lean into that, the more unforgettable your weekend will be.

Why Gather Round Is More Than Just Footy

Sure, the on-field action is what draws people in—but it’s everything around the game that makes Gather Round truly special. For many, it’s more than just a weekend of football. It’s a reason to travel, reconnect, and make memories with mates, family, or fellow fans you’ve only met online until now.

One of the best parts of the event is how it brings people together from all walks of life. You’ll see lifelong supporters standing shoulder to shoulder with first-timers, kids beaming in oversized guernseys, and elderly fans sharing stories of matches from decades past. There’s a strong sense of belonging, no matter which team you’re barracking for.

And the community outreach is no small thing either. AFL clubs use the weekend to run youth programs, charity events, and grassroots clinics that leave a lasting impact well after the final siren. Local businesses also get a boost, with pubs, cafes, and shops buzzing with footy fans looking to soak up the atmosphere.

Gather Round is proof that AFL isn’t just about sport—it’s culture, connection, and community all wrapped up in one epic celebration. Whether you’re there for the game or the greater experience, you’ll leave with more than just a scoreboard result.

Conclusion

As AFL Gather Round returns with fresh energy and bigger plans, it’s clear this event is cementing its place as one of the highlights of the footy calendar. With every team in town, a jam-packed schedule of entertainment, and fans filling the stands from all over the country, it’s the kind of weekend that reminds us why we love the game.

There’s nothing quite like the buzz of a city turned footy-mad for a few unforgettable days. And if you're up for it, this year’s Gather Round could be your best yet. Grab your gear, prep your cheers, and get ready to join the celebration—because this isn’t just a round of matches, it’s a full-blown AFL festival.