Ahead of the AFL grand final in Melbourne, where the Cats and the Lions will battle for this year’s premiership cup, thousands took advantage of the local public holiday to cheer on their heroes at the grand final parade.

Melbourne

Thousands of AFL fans converged on Melbourne to celebrate Grand Final Eve, with supporters of both the Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions participating in the festivities. The city hosted the traditional parade, with fans travelling from various locations, including international visitors, to witness the event and support their teams.

The atmosphere was one of excitement and unity, as families and fans of all ages enjoyed the spectacle and shared their hopes for the upcoming match. Despite some anticipation of rain, the weather remained mostly clear, allowing the celebrations to continue in Yarra Park and throughout the city.

Fan excitement begins in Melbourne for AFL grand final

It was a public holiday party for those who dare to dream. Go Cats! With crowds of cats and Lions pride taking over the streets of Melbourne. Go Lions! As thousands packed the city for Grand Final Eve and a chance to see this year's premiership contenders. We've done it, like, from when we were little, so it's just a little family tradition when we get into the Grand Final. It's just really fun. Really good day. You should come tomorrow, everyone. The traditional Hilux road route snagged through the city from Melbourne Park to the MCG, fans travelling from near and far to enjoy the spectacle. My dad and I came from Ohio. I've been a Cats fan, actually, since I was, like, six or seven. Coming here tomorrow to witness this game is just going to be a dream come true for me, my dad and I. It appeared the Lions' share of fans belonged to Brisbane, but there was still plenty of love for local team Geelong. They're the best team on the planet. If this is our turn, we show them who we are. And proving footy fever is catching, it wasn't just the die-hard and devoted turning up. Go, both teams! AFL wins at the end of the day. No matter your team, Grand Final Day Eve is a chance for fans to make special memories and savour their season's success. But with September's silverware travelling through the streets of Melbourne, fans can't help hope it'll be their team taking it home tomorrow. Do you think you'll feel a little bit nervous tomorrow? No. I just bawled my eyes out last year, so hopefully the same again, I reckon. Would it be the best day of your life if they won? Yeah. Definitely. The rain on the radar stayed away for most of the parade as every man and his dog flocked to Yarra Park. And what better vantage point than on dad's shoulders? With just one sleep to go and one game to get it right... Go, kids! ..this young fan had some solid advice. Try really hard and it doesn't matter if you lose. Steph Warmgartel, 10 News.

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