Norwood comes alive this 2025 AFL Gather Round with world-class footy, fine food, and vibrant festivities—an elevated celebration of sport, culture, and community in full swing

GAMES

Two must-attend matches will kick off at the historic Norwood Oval this 2025 AFL Gather Round. The first is on Saturday, April 12 between the 2024 Grand Final champions, Brisbane Lions, and the Marcus Bontempelli-led Western Bulldogs. The game starts at 3:45pm. The next match, taking place on Sunday, April 13 at 2:50pm, will see St Kilda and GWS Giants go head-to-head in a thrilling conclusion to a footy-fuelled weekend. 

Anyone with a valid game day ticket can take advantage of free public transport to and from matches at Norwood Oval. Check out the Adelaide Metro timetable here. Tickets to the Saturday match are still available and you can purchase them here. 

RIVALS LONG LUNCH 

Toast to the return of the 2025 AFL Gather Round and the Rivals Long Lunch on Saturday, April 12. In a celebration of the fresh flavours found in the City of Norwood Payneham and St Peters, produce from the loved Food Secrets of Stepney & Glynde manufacturers will be used throughout the four-course lunch. 

Food Secrets ambassador Jane Reilly OAM will host the day’s festivities, and head chef Eddie Noble (HNLY) has curated a menu that champions the rich tapestry of the state’s culinary scene. The council area’s boutique beverage suppliers have also joined in on the fun and paired local drinks with each course. Hosted on the lush grounds of Osmond Terrace in an al fresco garden setting, the Rivals Long Lunch is one of the must-attend events this Gather Round. 

Bookings are essential. Buy your tickets here. 

NORWOOD FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL 

After an incredible 2024 event, the Norwood Food & Wine Festival returns this year on Sunday, April 13. The fun, family-friendly day kicks off at 11am, with ARIA award-winning outfit Birds of Tokyo headlining the evening entertainment at 6pm. 

Footy fans will be able to enjoy all three of the day’s games – Richmond v. Fremantle, St Kilda v. GWS Giants and Port Adelaide v. Hawthorn – broadcast live on dedicated destinations, including a sensory area within Norwood Hoyts (find out more here). 

Meander along The Parade and take your pick from the more than 50 traders lining the buzzing strip, including arkhé, Fair Seafood and Gullview Estate x Watervale Hotel. Penfolds will also pop up on the day, pouring its iconic wine and serving delicious canapés in a stylish activation space, while acclaimed SA chef Callum Hann will be hosting cooking demonstrations in the Tasting Australian Kitchen.

Best of all, this mini-festival is free to attend! Find out more here. 

MINI FOOTY FESTIVAL 

Across the 2025 AFL Gather Round weekend, the Norwood Memorial Garden will once again host its Mini Footy Festival! From 11am on Saturday and Sunday, soak up the sporting action streamed live on the big screen. Local bands will soundtrack the afternoon fun, and the suburb’s outstanding food producers are the ideal destination to grab a midday feed. 

You can view the AFL Gather Round fixture here. The Mini Footy Festival will be open from 11am to 7pm on Saturday, April 12 and 11am to 6pm on Sunday, April 13. 

SENSORY SCREENING AT HOYTS 

Experience the excitement of the AFL Gather Round in the luxe comfort of Hoyts Norwood. These sensory sessions are for children and their families with autism, designed for them to enjoy the thrill of the footy frenzy in an environment that is safe and caters to their needs. In the spirit of the weekend, Hoyts has curated a Candy Bar special for these sessions: a snack popcorn paired with a 600ml of your choice for only $10! 

Bookings are essential! Find out more here. 

Norwood is the place to be this 2025 AFL Gather Round! The Festival of Footy takes place on April 10-13. Find out more here.