The AFL Grand Final

Traditionally held on the final Sunday in September, the AFL Grand Final is held on the historic Melbourne Cricket Grounds in front of nearly 100,000 screaming fans.

The Grand Final has swelled in size, having sold out for decades. The event is now a significant part of Australian culture, boasting the largest attendance, the biggest metropolitan television audience and overall fanaticism in Australian sports.

At stake in the Grand Final are the Premiership Cup and the Premiership Flag. The cup is awarded to the winning team in the spectacular celebration that immediately follows the Grand Final match. The Flag lays in wait until the opening home game the following season, rekindling the excitement of the Grand Final win for the home team and fans.

Ironically, the Premiership Flag seems to carry more weight – players and fans alike refer to having won the “flag” rather than the “cup” – something to keep in mind if you’re able to make the trip.