Next year’s AFL Gather Round promises to be a spectacular event, with the Sydney Swans set to face off against Collingwood in a high-profile Friday night match at the iconic Adelaide Oval. This exciting fixture is just one of many highlights as the entire AFL community gathers in Adelaide for the annual “Festival of Footy,” taking place from April 10 to April 13, 2025.
Gather Round, now a highly anticipated fixture in the AFL calendar, will showcase all 18 teams in nine thrilling matches for Premiership points. Fans can expect a range of exciting events, including two games set in the picturesque Barossa Valley, an Adelaide Oval double-header on Saturday, and matches at Norwood Oval. For those visiting Adelaide, the return of the free Footy Festival at Elder Park promises a fun-filled experience for all. Additionally, the Sydney Swans will host a special breakfast event on the Friday morning, offering a unique networking opportunity with key figures such as Sydney Swans Chairman Andrew Pridham, AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, and South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas.
Gather Round, a collaboration between the AFL and the South Australian government, will mark its third year in the state. As the event grows in popularity, AFL CEO Andrew Dillon expressed his excitement about the expanded offerings for 2025. “Gather Round is a celebration of the best our game has to offer,” Dillon said. “South Australia truly embraces this event, and next year we look forward to delivering an even bigger and better experience with new venues like Barossa Park in Lyndoch.”
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas also shared his enthusiasm, highlighting how the event continues to grow each year. “The inaugural Gather Round was a huge success, and this year was even better,” he commented. “Next year, with games in the stunning Barossa Valley, we’re excited to show off more of what our state has to offer while delivering a significant economic boost through tourism.”
For AFL fans attending, the action-packed schedule kicks off on Thursday, April 10, with Adelaide Crows facing off against Geelong at Adelaide Oval. The marquee match between Collingwood and Sydney Swans follows on Friday evening, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend of football. Alongside the matches, there will be community engagement activities, open training sessions, and the thrilling zip line experience over the Torrens River, making it a truly unique celebration of the game.
Fans can secure their tickets starting December 10, 2024, with options for both club and general members. Travel and accommodation options are also available, with Virgin Australia providing extra flights to accommodate the influx of footy fans and a range of hotels for those making the trip to Adelaide. It’s shaping up to be an unforgettable weekend for Swans supporters, AFL enthusiasts, and visitors alike.