Australian families searching for affordable and engaging activities these school holidays have a perfect solution delivered by the A-League's. The competition has scheduled a festival-like stretch of live football, with at least one match being played every single day from Boxing Day for over two weeks.
A Festival of Football for Families
This strategic scheduling provides a welcome answer for parents looking to reduce screen time and keep kids active. The league is placing a significant emphasis on creating a family-first experience, transforming matchdays into mini-festivals. Venues across the country will feature pre-game activities including face painting, inflatables, skills clinics, and food trucks.
A-League's presenter Tara Rushton is among those planning her holiday around the fixture list. "Bring on the summer of football, weekday and weeknight games at family-friendly times," Rushton says. She has already organised plans with interstate family so cousins can enjoy the A-League action together during the Christmas break.
"The kids love it," she explains. "They have the best time soaking up the atmosphere, cheering and chanting as the sun goes down, waiting to get a high-five or autograph off their favourite player and, of course, the hot chips."
Immersive Stadium Experiences and Future Stars
One of the league's biggest draws is the intimate, immersive stadium experience. At grounds like Leichhardt Oval, Spencer Park, polytec Stadium, and Coopers Stadium, families sit remarkably close to the pitch. This proximity allows fans to hear player calls, feel the match's energy, and see every touch in detail, turning professional athletes into accessible heroes for young supporters.
Each venue offers its own unique character. AAMI Park in Melbourne provides a big-city buzz, while Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium is steeped in sporting history. On the Central Coast, polytec Stadium combines summer sunsets with water views, and Sydney's Leichhardt Oval delivers an iconic suburban football feeling.
For families inspired by the recent successes of the Matildas and Socceroos, the A-League's offers a special opportunity. It's the place to see current national team stars and future global talents up close. The development pathway is clear: every single Matilda who played in the Women’s World Cup was developed in the Ninja A-League Women, playing an average of 85 games each. Last season, 22 A-League Women players received Matildas call-ups.
The men's competition is equally impressive, with 17 Socceroos call-ups coming from the A-League last season. Current Socceroos like Patrick Beach, Craig Goodwin, and Kai Trewin all ply their trade in Australia's top flight.
Affordable Holiday Value and Stress-Free Logistics
During an expensive holiday period, the A-League's affordable ticket packages offer genuine value, especially considering the hours of included pre and post-match entertainment. The league's scheduling is designed with families in mind, featuring mid-week options and late-afternoon kick-offs that help break up long days at home.
Logistics are made stress-free for parents. Most venues are located near public transport, with easy parking available at suburban grounds and short travel times. Many locations also allow kids to run around on hills and open spaces, creating a relaxed, enjoyable environment for the whole family.
Special highlights include the New Year's fixtures, which will feature post-game fireworks displays, offering a safe and fun alternative to traditional late-night celebrations.
For Rushton, the power of the league lies in its accessibility and inspiration. "Kids see people who look like them, who grew up in their suburbs, playing professionally. That’s powerful," she states. "This is the league where the next Matildas and Socceroos are formed, and families can see them before they become global stars."
With a daily fixture schedule from Boxing Day through early January, the A-League's is providing structure, excitement, and an active, affordable centrepiece for the Australian summer holidays.
