Grand Final Saturday is almost here, and if you don’t want to spend it squinting at a tiny TV while your mate’s dog barks over the commentary, it’s worth finding somewhere with a bit more atmosphere. 

If you want a big screen, a cold drink and a crowd around you for every goal, Canberra has plenty of places showing the action live and loud. 

From Braddon beer gardens to dedicated sports bars and local clubs, here are a few spots to settle in for the AFL Grand Final this Saturday.

 

Assembly, Braddon 

If you don’t mind battling for a park in Braddon and want to stay close to the city, Assembly could be your best bet. 

The Lonsdale Street pub shows AFL throughout the season, with screens inside and plenty of room in the beer garden. Grab a table, order something from the kitchen and settle in for the afternoon. There are no bookings required, so it’s worth getting there early to claim a good spot.

 

 

The RUC, Turner 

Turner’s local bowlo is another reliable spot for a big afternoon of sport. 

The RUC regularly shows AFL on its big screen, with plenty of pub classics, cold drinks and indoor and outdoor seating to choose from. Given Grand Final Saturday tends to draw a crowd, booking ahead is a good idea.

 

 

Walt & Burley, Kingston Foreshore 

For footy with a lakeside setting, Walt & Burley is an easy option on the Kingston Foreshore. 

Grab a spot outside if the weather plays along, or settle in indoors with something from the kitchen and a drink in hand for the afternoon. 

 

 

Onyx Sports Lounge, Civic 

If you want a dedicated sports-bar experience, head to Onyx Sports Lounge at Casino Canberra. 

They’re hosting an AFL Grand Final Watch Party from 2.30pm, with the game on the big screens and 50% off hot wings at half-time. Plus, spend $15 or more and you’ll also go in the draw to win a Grand Final team jersey.  

Just remember, the venue is strictly 18+. 

 

 

Gungahlin Lakes Club, Gungahlin 

Northsiders can settle in at Gungahlin Lakes Club, where the Lakes Bistro seats up to 300 people. 

Grab lunch before the first bounce and stay put for the afternoon, with 49% off selected drinks during the Grand Final. Plus, purchase a selected pint or schooner and you’ll also go in the draw to win a $150 Jerseys Megastore voucher. 

 

 

Canberra Southern Cross Club, Multiple Locations 

Canberra Southern Cross Club is showing the game live and loud across its Woden, Tuggeranong and Jamison venues. 

There’s 49% off tap beer, wine by the glass and post-mix soft drinks from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. Over at Southbound in Tuggeranong, you can also grab $1 wings or an $18.90 burger deal, with live music kicking off from 7pm. Bookings are strongly recommended. 

 

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:  

Location: Various venues across Braddon, Turner, Kingston, Civic, Gungahlin, Woden, Tuggeranong, and Jamison  

Dates/Times: Saturday 26 September, 2:30pm  

Ticketing/Booking: Free entry, bookings highly recommended for seated venues unless specified.