Things to Do with Kids in Melbourne During AFL Grand Final Week

Family Activities at AFL Footy Fest 2026

The AFL Footy Fest returns to Yarra Park from Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 September 2026, with four days of free footy-themed entertainment for families. Kids can meet AFL and AFLW players, have a go at interactive footy activities, enjoy live entertainment and take part in clinics and games.

Entry to Footy Fest is free, and you don’t need to be a footy expert to enjoy the event. 

Wednesday 23 September

Player Appearances
Telstra Signing Hub @ Footy Festival

Meet AFL and AFLW players at the Telstra Signing Hub, with a rotating line-up appearing throughout Wednesday to Friday. It’s a great opportunity for young footy fans to see their favourite players and have the chance to get something signed.

The AFL PLAY Clubhouse
AFL PLAY Zone @ Footy Fest

The AFL PLAY Clubhouse is part of the AFL PLAY Zone and gives kids and families the chance to discover different ways to get involved with footy. Activities include interactive experiences, having a kick, designing a footy T-shirt and trying out VR umpiring.

Tim Credible
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Melbourne magician Tim Credible brings interactive magic, comedy, bubbles and plenty of audience participation to the Bunnings Family Stage.

Kids Disco Party
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Get the kids moving with music, games, lights and plenty of opportunities to dance along.

Dr Hubbles Bubbles
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Dr Hubbles Bubbles brings giant bubbles and bubble-filled entertainment to Footy Fest, making this one for younger kids who love watching bubbles float, bounce and pop.

Max the Magician
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Max the Magician brings interactive magic and plenty of laughs to the family stage, with tricks designed to keep kids involved in the show.

Thursday 24 September

Player Appearances
Telstra Signing Hub @ Footy Festival

The player appearances continue, with a rotating line-up of AFL and AFLW players appearing at the Telstra Signing Hub.

The AFL PLAY Clubhouse
AFL PLAY Zone @ Footy Fest

Kids can continue exploring the AFL PLAY Clubhouse, with interactive activities designed to introduce families to different ways to play and enjoy footy.

The Mik Maks
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest 

The Mik Maks bring their high-energy family show to the Bunnings Family Stage, combining music, singing, dancing and audience participation. It’s designed to get both kids and parents involved.

Tim Credible
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Expect interactive magic, bubbles, comedy and plenty of audience participation from Melbourne entertainer Tim Credible.

Kids Disco Party
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest 

Kids can dance along to music, games and lights during the Kids Disco Party, with plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Max the Magician
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Max the Magician returns to the family stage with interactive tricks, laughs and magical surprises for kids.

Friday 25 September

2026 Toyota AFL Grand Final Parade

Friday is a big day for footy fans, with the 2026 Toyota AFL Grand Final Parade adding to the Grand Final atmosphere in Melbourne.

The AFL PLAY Clubhouse
AFL PLAY Zone @ Footy Fest

The AFL PLAY Zone continues with interactive activities for kids and families, including opportunities to have a kick, explore footy and try some of the more unusual ways to play.

Live Music

Enjoy live music throughout the festival as Footy Fest builds towards Grand Final weekend.

Kids Disco Party
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

The Kids Disco Party returns with music, games, lights and dancing for younger visitors.

Mr Snotbottom
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Expect plenty of silly humour from Mr Snotbottom, with slime, gross-out jokes and plenty of laughs for kids who enjoy their entertainment a little bit ridiculous.

Saturday 26 September – Grand Final Day

The AFL PLAY Clubhouse
AFL PLAY Zone @ Footy Fest

The AFL PLAY Clubhouse continues on Grand Final Day, giving families another chance to explore the interactive activities and footy experiences.

Clinics

Kids can get involved in footy clinics and activities designed to get them active and practising their skills.

Family Entertainment

There will be family-friendly entertainment throughout the day, making Footy Fest a fun option for families before the Grand Final.

2026 Toyota AFL Grand Final Live Broadcast
Bunnings Family Stage @ Footy Fest

Can’t make it to the MCG? Families can watch the 2026 Toyota AFL Grand Final live on the big screen at the Bunnings Family Stage at Footy Fest.

Footy Fest 2026 opening hours

Wednesday 23 September: 10am–5pm
Thursday 24 September: 10am–5pm
Friday 25 September: 9am–5pm
Saturday 26 September: 9am–7pm

Footy Fest is a particularly good option for families wanting a free activity during the September school holidays, with plenty to see and do beyond watching football. The AFL PLAY Zone is likely to be one of the main attractions for kids, while the family stage provides entertainment throughout the day.