It’s almost time for the best day of the year, if you’re an Aussie...
The AFL Grand Final, of course.
If you don't know what the AFL — Australian Football League — is, in a nutshell, it's the greatest sport of all time.
But here's a quick explainer video to catch you up:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMZYZcoAcU0
The Grand Final, where two teams battle it out in the final clash of the season for the Premiership Flag, will be shown live at select pubs around Vancouver this Friday night, Sept. 27, at 9.30 p.m.
This year Richmond take on Greater Western Sydney in what’s bound to be a ripper of a game, with high-pressure and fierce tackling.
It’s a tough one to pick. While I can’t say who will win (I'll be cheering for GWS), I can help you choose a venue to watch the game at.
Pubs around town are starting events from around 8 p.m. on Friday, depending on the location, so pick a venue and get a seat early so you don’t miss any of the action.
Here’s our picks.
Moose’s Down Under
This is probably one of the most popular watering holes for Aussies who flew the coop and wound up living in Vancouver, so expect a big crowd if you are able to reserve a table.
The pub invites footy fans to “bring your Aussie spirit, don your colours and support your boys while they fight for the Premiership Flag.”
They have all the half-time food covered: You can enjoy meat pies, chips, Vegemite and cheese sangers, chicken parmi, lamingtons, pavlova … and you can wash it all back with a Bundy too.
TIP: These events book up fast and we’ve heard they’re chockers – so make sure you call and reserve a spot for you and your crew. (Keep it in mind for next year if you miss out!)
Time: 9.10 p.m. but they are taking reservations till 7.30pm.
Entry: Free but must have a reservation
The Manchester Pub
If you can’t get in to Moose’s (which is a big reality you may have to face) The Manchester Pub is another great venue to scream for your team.
Organizer’s claim it is home to “the BIGGEST AFL Grand Final screening in Vancouver!” I watched the GF here last year and I can vouch for it having a great atmosphere, well priced beers (Ridge and Whistler Brewing beers for $5) and great pub grub.
The pub has the game on a giant 124" HD projector — and twelve 50-inch HD TV’s thrown in for good measure, so you won’t miss one minute of the action no matter where you're sitting.
Time: 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. (Time is subject to change, so it’s recommended you go in early.)
Location: 1941 W Broadway
Entry: Free
The Beaver Taphouse
The Beaver Taphouse will have the game on and meat pies on the menu. Perfect.
You can also enjoy $4.50 PBR cans, $4.50 single highballs, $5.75 Whistler Brewing Seasonal beers.
It’ll be first come first served, so grab a seat early!
Time: 9.30 p.m. kick off
Location: 1018 Granville St
Entry: Free
Castaway Bar and Kitchen
You can “watch, cheer, yell, shake fists at the TVs and enjoy seeing who will take the trophy this year” at Castaway Bar and Kitchen.
The night will include Grand Final 50/50 raffles, games, giveaways and entertainment.
Castaways will also be putting on food and drink specials for all. Seating will be first come first serve, so get in early to enjoy all the festivities.
Time: 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Entry: $15
Tickets: Available HERE.
Location: 3293 W 4th Ave
Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery
You could have a meal and enjoy the game at Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery. The bar will be showing the game with sound and also has a couple of drink and food specials for the night.
The bar offers two 106-inch projectors and 16 hi-def TVs.
Specials for the night will include Nachos - $8 to $15 – and Heineken beer for $7.
If you have a group of eight or more you’re best to reserve a table.
Time: 9.30 p.m. kick off
Location: 560 Smithe Street
Entry: Free
** Pubs and bars that aren’t having events but you can ask to watch the game (some may not offer sound)**
Shark Club Sports Bar + Grill
Staff said if you can sway the crowd on Friday night, they will put the AFL Grand Final on the TVs for you. Bring a big bunch of mates and make it happen!
Time: 9.30 p.m. kick off
Location: 180 W Georgia St
Entry: Free
Colony Bar
You can ask to watch the game here but there most likely won’t be sound.
Time: 9.30 p.m. kick off
Location: 2904 Main St
Entry: Free
If you know of a venue hosting an event that’s not on the list please email [email protected]
