Kids GO FREE - AFL Rounds 16-19

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Thu 29 Jun 2023 - Sun 23 Jul 2023

Even better than a fun family day out is a free tickets offer! These school holidays over rounds 16-19 (June 29 to July 23) kids 14 years and under tickets are free for all stadiums across Australia, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Visit here for more information.



The MCG is a lively destination with much more to enjoy than just a game of footy. Pack your winter woollies, snacks and excitement and look up the AFL 2023 fixture to see when the next game is on.

To be honest it doesn't really matter who you see play when you take little kids, as chances are you won't end up actually watching much of the game. Between toilet trips, snacks and general excitement if you are looking to really get into a game then perhaps a solo trip is advisable!



However with a bit of planning taking the kids can be a super fun way of enjoying a day out, teaching the kids about footy and sharing in the excitement that a footy crowd brings.

I would recommend an afternoon game or twilight, as it is more fun in the daylight and generally not as cold. Aim for around a 2- 4 pm start game to get the most out of your trip.



The kids will love exploring the stadium, I would recommend the Shane Warne Stand (formerly the Southern Stand). As it is generally less busy, so the kids can roam around a little, there are also great views from the top. Allow a little time to walk up before the game starts.



I like to sit up at the top because it is a bit quieter and not as crowded as the lower levels. I wouldn't book seats higher than row K though as it does get quite steep. when it is not at capacity you are free to really roam and sit anywhere empty.



There should be one or two food stands open in the upper levels and they are generally less busy than downstairs as well. The stand also gets the afternoon sun so it is warmer (so don't forget your sunnies, remember it is Melbourne). Alternatively the Ponsford stand, this stand will likely be in the shade and often busier because it is newer. It does have a good area where you can sit and eat that is indoors though.



Later in the game you and the team on the ground will be visited by a lot of seagulls so, if you or your kids aren't huge bird fans try not to leave stray chips lying around!



Food: You can also pack your own food and drinks (non-alcoholic and no cans or glass) which is great. I'd recommend packing healthy snacks as there isn't a lot of choice in this area.

Don't forget water bottles for everyone as drinks are not great value. You can get a kids pack which is nuggets and chips in a cute box with a little game on the side for $6.50, this was great value and a generous serving. Prices for other treats like a bag of chips, chocolate bars, lollies and ice creams range from $4.50-$7.30. More substantial food such as pies and hot dogs are $5.50 with chicken and tenders and chips or chicken burger $14.00 and $11.00 respectively. Sandwiches and other options are available as well.

Of course, the obligatory pie coming is always a must and at least the sauce is free! Food vendors generally close just after three-quarter time.


Don't worry if you forget to get your hot jam donuts there are plenty of food vans on the outside with sugary hot donuts ready to go!


Tickets: When it isn't kid's free round general admission tickets for games at the MCG are $27 for adults, $18 for concession card holders and $5 for kids over five years old, while kids under five can get into games for free. Family entry tickets are $54 per family (two adults and two children).

Transport: For up-to-date info including journey planner visit here
But in brief

Car- You can park on the grounds surrounding the MCG, keep in mind that this may close if the ground is too wet or they reach capacity. It costs $10 payable by EFTPOS only (No cash). There is limited street parking. Alternatively, there is parking underneath Epworth Freemasons Hospital for $12.00, which is a pleasant 10-minute walk away.

Tram- Two trams run from Flinders Street to the MCG via Wellington Parade.

The No. 75 (City-Vermont South) No. 48 (City-North Balwyn) stop just outside the MCG.

The No. 70 (City-Wattle Park) detours from Flinders Street along Swan Street, which is a short stroll over the John Cain Arena (formerly Melbourne Arena) footbridge to the ground.
Sadly the MCG is not in the free tram zone, so you will need a valid Myki ticket.

Bus- The 246 stops in Punt Road, just a footy kick from the ground

Of course, you can walk from Flinders Street station along the Yarra and then over the William Barak Bridge. This is a lovely walk and you can take in some great views along the way.

Facilities: You can take in bags (as long as they can fit under a seat) but they will be searched on entry. We didn't take our pram as I was conscious of the stairs, and while the majority of places can be accessed I didn't want the hassle, but I did see prams inside. The ideal solution would be a stroller that folds up and you could tuck it next to or under your chair.

No umbrellas are allowed to be opened up where they may obstruct viewing so don't forget to pack your poncho if the weather looks doubtful, the MCG is not a covered stadium.
Best to check up-to-date venue details here to be sure!

Before or after the game:Generally there are loads of activities and promotions set up outside the ground, so it is good to get there a bit earlier to take a look around at these. Also don't forget to pack a footy for a kick to kick before after or at halftime. It is a great way to stretch your legs during the game and let the kids (and you!) practice their skills.



There are always merchandise stands outside the ground as well as inside, so why not buy your own little piece of fan gear, or a beanie to replace the one you forgot…remember it's cold in Melbourne!

You could also spend some time in the Australian Sports Museum, located inside Gate 3, select as an add-on when purchasing AFL match tickets through Ticketek or purchase at the ticket counter inside Gate 3 of the MCG. Kids tickets are free during kids free round promotion and adult tickets can be purchased for half price! Normal prices are around $33.00 for adults and kids $15, with concession and normal pricing available. The museum closes 15 minutes before matches start.



Around the ground is home to many statues which are great to see and learn about, if you are leaving via MCC avenue (towards Jolimont Station) there are plenty to look at along there and a selection around the perimeter of the stadium if you have time to do a lap.


There is also a very old scar tree on the grounds around the stadium, which is a sacred Aboriginal site and unique to the area.


Buskers generally play great music before and after the game, which really helps with the atmosphere, so remember to take a few coins to support their art.

Enjoy a great day out with your family at the MCG and I hope you have as much fun as we did!

#family
#family -attractions
#fun_for_children
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#richmond
#school_holidays
#sport
#june
!date 29/06/2023 -- 23/07/2023
%wnmelbourne