Essendon Football Club’s fixture for the 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership Season has been officially confirmed, setting the stage for an exciting year for the Bomber faithful. Fans can look forward to a series of blockbuster matches and more family-friendly time slots, enhancing accessibility for supporters across the board.
The 2026 season will feature Essendon in five home games at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), including high-stakes clashes against traditional rivals Hawthorn, Collingwood, and Carlton. These matches are anticipated to draw crowds exceeding 80,000 passionate fans, creating an electrifying atmosphere at one of the sport’s most revered venues.
Blockbuster Matches and Key Fixtures
The season kicks off with a bang as Essendon faces Hawthorn under the Friday night lights at the MCG. This opening round is expected to set a record Home & Away crowd between the two rivals, establishing an exciting tone for the year ahead. The anticipation builds further in round three, when Essendon will play its first home game at Marvel Stadium against North Melbourne on a Saturday night.
Round five takes the team to Adelaide for the much-loved ‘Gather Round’, where they will compete against Melbourne at Adelaide Oval in a Saturday lunchtime clash. The cherished Anzac Day blockbuster will see Essendon host a Saturday afternoon game at the MCG, while the Dreamtime at the ‘G retains its prime Friday night slot, promising another captivating spectacle during the Sir Doug Nicholls Round.
Family-Friendly Scheduling and Fan Engagement
Essendon’s 2026 fixture also emphasizes family-friendly scheduling, with more Saturday and Sunday games than ever before. This approach is designed to accommodate fans of all ages, offering a variety of time slots from lunchtime action at Marvel Stadium to afternoon footy at the MCG. The goal is to provide every fan with the chance to attend live footy next season.
Essendon CEO Craig Vozzo expressed his enthusiasm for the 2026 fixture, highlighting its balance of blockbuster matches and enhanced fan accessibility.
“Our fixture gives Bomber fans plenty to get excited about, starting with that Friday night blockbuster against Hawthorn at the MCG to set the tone for a big year of footy,” Vozzo said.
He also noted the importance of interstate trips, which allow supporters outside Victoria to watch the team live.
Looking Ahead: Memberships and Ticketing
Essendon is encouraging fans to ‘Fly Together’ in 2026 with game access memberships now available. Memberships, starting from just $79, offer the best way to stay connected and support the club’s goals. The club’s membership service team is ready to assist with any inquiries, ensuring fans can secure their seats for the upcoming season.
Ticketing information for the 2026 Toyota AFL Season will be communicated soon, with tickets for the ‘Gather Round’ going on sale to AFL and Club access members on Wednesday, December 3. The general public will have access the following day, ensuring all fans have the opportunity to be part of the action.
Implications and Future Prospects
The announcement of Essendon’s 2026 fixture represents a strategic move to enhance fan engagement and attendance. By offering a mix of high-profile matches and accessible scheduling, the club aims to strengthen its connection with its national fanbase. As the team prepares for the season, the focus will be on delivering strong performances both at home and interstate, providing fans with memorable experiences.
With the times and dates for Rounds 16-24 yet to be confirmed, the excitement surrounding Essendon’s 2026 campaign continues to build. As the Bombers gear up for a promising season, fans can anticipate a year filled with thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.
