Perth is gearing up for an AFL takeover this February, with free events, live entertainment and a nationally televised broadcast bringing footy fever to Perth in the lead-up to the historic 2026 AAMI AFL Origin match.
The sold-out fixture marks the return of AFL Origin after more than 26 years, and it’s bringing thousands of interstate visitors to the city. Running from Thursday, February 12th, through to match day on Saturday, February 14th, the celebration includes a live broadcast show, open training sessions, and a two-day Footy Fest at Stadium Park next to Optus Stadium.
Origin Countdown live broadcast
The excitement kicks off on Thursday, February 12th, with Origin Countdown, a 90-minute live broadcast event at Optus Stadium’s Southern Oval. The show will feature AFL hosts, personalities, and past legends, with filming taking place across multiple Perth venues, including Leederville Hotel and Little Creatures Brewery in Fremantle.
Broadcast on Channel 7 to hundreds of thousands of viewers nationally, the show puts Perth in the spotlight and gives fans the chance to be part of the action. Tickets are available now for those who want to watch the filming live from Southern Oval.
Footy Fest at Stadium Park
Over Friday and Saturday, February 13th and 14th, Stadium Park transforms into Footy Fest central. The free festival features football games, roving entertainment, food trucks, live music, and WA market stalls, creating a family-friendly atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
On Friday, February 13th, fans can watch open training sessions for both the Western Australian and Victorian teams at Optus Stadium. It’s a rare chance to see star players, including Marcus Bontempelli, Nick Daicos, and Patrick Cripps, up close before they face off in the historic match.
Perth lights up navy and gold
The AFL Origin celebration extends across the city, with a giant Sherrin football installation at Forrest Place and landmarks throughout Perth lighting up in the team’s navy and gold colours. A dedicated merchandise store will sell exclusive Origin gear, while an interactive digital scavenger hunt sends fans exploring the city.
For football history enthusiasts, the WA Museum Boola Bardip and State Library of Western Australia will showcase historic memorabilia from past Origin matches, celebrating the state’s rich football heritage.
Local pubs across Western Australia are joining the party too, decorating their venues and broadcasting the match live on Saturday night. It’s a chance for communities statewide to gather and witness history as WA takes on Victoria in footy’s biggest rivalry.
Major events boost for Perth
AFL Origin is the latest addition to Perth’s blockbuster summer events calendar, following the United Cup, Hoopsfest, and Perth Sail Grand Prix, with Rugby SVNS and the AFC Women’s Asian Cup still to come.
The return of Origin after more than two decades is expected to deliver a significant economic boost, with thousands of interstate visitors filling Perth’s pubs, cafés, and hotels throughout the weekend.