12 Sep 2023 | 4 mins
Overview
  • Keen to watch the AFL grand final with friends but never thrown a watch party before? Don't stress, we've got you covered.

The AFL grand final is coming in hot, so it’s time to start thinking about how you’ll celebrate the big dance. 

Here are a few things to remember when you’re planning the perfect group grand final party. 

Share the load

If someone has put their hand up to host the watch party, help them out by chipping in where you can. Get everyone to bring a snack, some finger food, or drinks to be shared so no one ends up out of pocket.  

If you have some free time on the day of the event, head round early to help the host set up. Not only will they appreciate the extra help, it’ll also add to the anticipation for the game.

Dress Up

The atmosphere of the party will instantly be better if everyone’s decked out in supporter merch. Wear a jersey, scarf, or go all out and paint your face in your team’s colours. 

If you don’t support either team playing, just jump on a bandwagon for the night. You’ll be more invested in the game, and be able to celebrate with your friends if they come out on top. 

Decorate

Is a party even a party without decorations? A lively space makes for a lively occasion. Plus, putting up the decorations is a fun activity in itself, especially if you get a few other people involved. 

Head out to a party shop and grab some banners and balloons. Then, as long as you don’t mind a bit of cleaning up, fill them with confetti to match your team’s colours. 

Get the set-up right

Imagine getting hyped for a grand final party only to show up to your friend's house and they’ve got a glitchy live stream playing on a 32 inch monitor. 

Make sure the host has a suitably-sized TV, and if speakers are available, plug them in to get the sound pumping. 

Get Comfy

Make sure the room is as comfy as possible and everyone has somewhere to sit. There’s nothing worse than everyone turning up on the day and having to spend the first 10 minutes of the game looking for extra seats. 

Be prepared for defeat

Obviously you want your team to win, but if the vibe of the party relies on a victory, you’re setting yourself up for a dud. Plus, if there are people coming to the party that support the other team, you’re going to completely kill their vibe if they’re trying to celebrate a win and you’re moping in the corner. 

That said, if you’re on the winning end of things, try not to rub it in everyone else’s face when they’re getting over the loss. 


If we’ve got you feeling inspired to get some friends together and watch the final, all you need to do now is message the group chat. Fingers crossed a few of them are keen to actually leave the house for once.