After months of anticipation, the historic NFL game is happening in Melbourne this week, and there’s lots of ways to celebrate.
The first-ever regular season NFL game in Melbourne is about to take place this week on Friday, September 11. Watch as the San Francisco 49ers take on the Los Angeles Rams at the MCG from 10:35am. And, with just days until the match, Melbourne is gearing up to have a stacked calendar of sensational events. Things started off on a high just yesterday, with Melbourne breaking the record for the largest cheerleading dance in the world at Fed Square. 1,424 Melburnians took part in the routine, smashing the previous record held by Tokyo. And if you missed out, or if you’re just keen to soak in the atmosphere, here’s all the things to do in Melbourne in the lead-up to the NFL game.
Dive into the action at the Melbourne Park precinct, where you’ll find watch parties, merchandise, Flag Football clinics and an American food village. While you’re at the NFL Melbourne Game Kickoff Festival, have fun with live music from artists like Peking Duk, Sneaky Sound System, Hot Dub Time Machine, Grinspoon, Kita Alexander and Public Figures.
Melbourne End Zone at Fed Square
The Cheer Challenge might be over, but there’s still lots of fun things to do at Fed Square. Transforming into the Melbourne End Zone, Fed Square will air the Seattle Seahawks v New England Patriots game on Thursday, followed by the Melbourne game live on Friday. There will also be interactive experiences, like a punting challenge and a cornhole game, as well as merch, live entertainment and more. See what’s on here.
NFL Prime Time Lights
To celebrate the game, Melbourne Town Hall and Flinders Street Station will light up with NFL projections from 6pm to 10pm, from now until September 11.
The Riverwalk at Crown Melbourne will transform into the ultimate Rams fan zone, complete with a floating football field, a mariachi band, cheerleaders and more. Known as Rams House: The LA Tailgate Experience, this space will let you feel the atmosphere and traditions of a Rams home game.
For the final Winter Night Market, String Bean Alley will transform into Gridiron Alley. Find all the energy of the NFL, and plenty of photo moments, in this iconic Melbourne laneway. Swing by American Doughnut Kitchen on Wednesday, September 9, at 6:30pm and 7pm, for some legendary surprise appearances.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Bricklane will be playing the NFL game on the big screen, with $10 pints and brunch from 9:30am.
Transport Public Bar
Transport Public Bar will be the official home for San Francisco 49ers fans. They will be playing the game live and loud on Friday across 13 screens and three mega screens. They’re also serving up an NFL-inspired menu, with brisket burgers, tomahawks, loaded fries, nachos, pizza and even a 49er Footlong. As for drinks, sip on the Quarterback Bloody Mary, Red Zone Spicy Margarita and more. Throughout the day, expect giveaways, entertainment and appearances from 49ers alumni, Sourdough Sam and Gold Rush cheerleaders. Doors open at 8:30am for a 10:30am kickoff.
Baker Bleu
Baker Bleu is getting into the spirit of things with a menu inspired by the NFL. The highlight is a s’mores cookie, dotted with macadamia nuts and filled with house-made raspberry jam, marshmallow and chocolate, all in the shape of an NFL football. There’s also some mini pizzas, available in pepperoni & hot honey or cheese & jalapeno, served with house-made ranch dipping sauce. The cookie is available in all stores, will the pizzetta is only available in Caulfield and Cremorne.
Culture Kings x New Era watch party
Culture Kings is hosting a watch party this week, complete with American-style snacks and drinks, a New Era customisation station and giveaways. It’s on from 10am to 2pm, and entry is to the first 80 people in line with a Culture Kings token.
Springrock Public Bar
Springrock Public Bar is joining in on the fun with a watch party, complete with unlimited $25 smoked chicken wings, and drink specials like $30 Coors buckets, $9 Jack Daniel’s and $10 craft beers. The Fancy Hank’s American BBQ menu will also be available from 9am to 1:30pm, with mouth-watering treats like brisket sandwich or baby back pork ribs on offer. Bookings area available now.
Melbourne Star
To celebrate the game, the Melbourne Star will light up in the Los Angeles Ram’s colours from now until September 11. The lights will be visible across Docklands from 7pm each night.
Imperial Hotel Bourke Street
The Imperial Hotel is transforming into a home base for Seahawks fans this week. Watch the Seahawks take on the Patriots on Thursday, and show off your skills at a Seahawks trivia night. Then on Friday, watch the Melbourne game on screen.
Las Vegas Raiders in Melbourne
The Las Vegas Raiders are taking over Melbourne with a variety of experiences. Swing by Cherry Bar for live music, free drinks and appearances from Raiders alumni, take part in a laneway party, head to Revolver for live hip-hop and more. The kids will also have plenty to do, with a football clinic at Kia Arena. See what’s on here.
Quarterhouse
At the Quarterhouse watch party, you can look forward to Dons Hot Dogs, face painting, cheerleaders and a post-game live music session.
NFL Shop
Get your outfit ready with a trip to NFL Shop, where you’ll find jerseys, apparel and headwear from all 32 teams. You can also expect an exclusive Melbourne game range. This shop is open from now until September 13.
Riverland Bar
Riverland Bar is playing the game live on the mega screen in the beer garden. They’re also serving up American beers on tap, as well as a special Aussie Works burger. More info here.
The San Francisco 49ers have highlighted some local spots to try on the Melbourne Foodie Passport trail. Throughout the week 49ers talent, including alumni, Sourdough Sam and Gold Rush cheerleaders, will make special appearances at these venues.
The Waterside Hotel
The Waterside Hotel is getting you ready for the game with live music from 7pm on Thursday, followed by a live screening of the game on Friday. While you’re there, tuck into American-inspired specials like buffalo chicken wings, hot honey-glazed pork rubs or a $68 NFL snack platter. Buckets of Budweiser will also be available. Keep the party going after the game with live music from 1:30pm to 4:30pm, followed by DJs. More info here.