Grand Final Parade 2025 Highlights: AFL Parade Timings, Where It Starts, and What Fans Can Expect

The build-up to the AFL’s biggest day of the year is officially underway as Melbourne prepares to host the Grand Final Parade 2025. Thousands of fans are expected to line the streets to cheer on the players, coaches, and Premiership Cup as the two competing clubs make their way through the city. With the match between Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions looming, the parade provides one last chance for supporters to catch a glimpse of their heroes before Saturday’s showdown at the MCG.

AFL Grand Final Parade 2025 Route

This year’s AFL Grand Final Parade 2025 route begins at Melbourne Park Oval before weaving its way through Melbourne and Olympic Park. From there, the procession heads into Birrarung Marr, crosses the William Barak Bridge, and finishes at the Yarra Park precinct next to the MCG.

Fans can expect entertainment and activations along the route, with large screens, food stalls, and live music set up at Birrarung Marr. The parade concludes at the TCL Main Stage in Macca’s Footy Fest at Yarra Park, where teams and the Premiership Cup will be presented to the public.

AFL Parade Start Time and Broadcast Details

The official AFL Parade start time is scheduled for 10:30 am on Friday, 26 September 2025. Festivities kick off earlier, with pre-parade entertainment starting around 10:00 am.

Coverage of the parade will be broadcast live and exclusively on Fox Footy, ensuring fans across the country don’t miss out on the spectacle.

Grand Final Parade Melbourne Viewing Spots

Supporters heading to the city have a range of options to experience the Grand Final Parade Melbourne celebrations:

• Melbourne Park Oval: Early arrivals can enjoy family-friendly entertainment and easy access via public transport.

• Birrarung Marr: A hub of activity with live music, screens, and food stalls, making it a prime spot for fans to gather.

• Yarra Park / Macca’s Footy Fest: The final destination of the parade, featuring live entertainment, sponsor activations, and the presentation of teams and the Premiership Cup.

AFL Footy Fest 2025 Attractions

As part of the celebrations, AFL Footy Fest 2025 transforms the MCG precinct into a carnival of football. Fans will be treated to live performances, family zones, player appearances, and sponsor activations. The event runs across Grand Final week, with the parade serving as its centerpiece.

Grand Final Parade Broadcast and Atmosphere

The Grand Final Parade broadcast gives those unable to attend in person a front-row seat to all the action. With cameras stationed along the route and at the main stage, viewers will see every moment — from the players’ arrival to the dramatic unveiling of the Premiership Cup.

Meanwhile, the atmosphere in Melbourne is expected to be electric, with both Geelong and Brisbane supporters flooding the streets in team colors. The event not only showcases the AFL’s biggest game but also highlights the city’s ability to bring fans together in celebration.

Grand Final Parade Weather Forecast

According to the Grand Final Parade weather forecast, Melbourne could see showers and the chance of thunderstorms later in the day. Fans are encouraged to pack umbrellas and raincoats, especially if planning to attend outdoor events across the parade route.

Despite the uncertain skies, the excitement around the parade and Saturday’s Grand Final remains undiminished, with thousands expected to turn out rain or shine.

Grand Final Parade 2025 Highlights for Fans

The Grand Final Parade 2025 Highlights promise a blend of tradition and fanfare. Supporters can look forward to:

• Close-up views of Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions players

• The official presentation of the Premiership Cup

• A family-friendly atmosphere with music, food, and live entertainment

• Easy access via boosted public transport services

• Free tram travel to the MCG precinct on parade day

With the Grand Final set for Saturday, 27 September at 2:30 pm at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the parade acts as the perfect curtain-raiser, uniting fans before one of the most anticipated matches in AFL history.