Adelaide CBD poised for major spending during 2025 Gather Round, AEDA data shows
More than $60 million is expected to change hands in the CBD and North Adelaide during the 2025 AFL Gather Round, new Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) data shows.
Around $61,157,120 is forecast to be spent between Thursday, 10 April to Sunday, 13 April representing a 25 per cent increase in comparison to the typical Thursday-to-Sunday spend of $48,955,769 in the city.
The highest spending day will be Friday, 11 April, with a total of $18,637,757, followed by Saturday at $16,579,601.
AEDA Chair Steve Maras expects the economic impact of Gather Round to be felt across all sectors, and areas, of the city.
“Gather Round plays an important role in the city’s economy and offers traders a chance to capitalise on extra locals and tourists in the CBD,” Mr Maras says.
“The event not only brings significant economic benefits, but it also fosters a vibrant, bustling atmosphere that energises our community.
“The ripple effect touches every corner of Adelaide, from small local businesses to larger department stores that always report bumper days of trade.
“We’re excited to see the continued growth of Gather Round and the positive impact it has on our city.”
Hospitality and retail operators are preparing for four huge days of trade, including OVO Gelato & Dessert Bar in Ebenezer Place.
Owners John Milky and Gaby Saleh are expecting a huge weekend, with their team ready to make an extra 100kg of gelato across the four-day period.
Mr Milky says his business is ready to take on full days of gelato production, which includes a special limited-edition flavour—Torta di Riso—for Gather Round.
OVO will also have smoothies for breakfast, bagels and a deli sando range for lunch, and coffee all day.
“We are so excited at OVO for this exciting time because it is a great chance for locals who don’t get into the city as often to discover us down in the East End,” Mr Milky says.
“We’re excited to have extra interstate visitors in the city which will bring in more foot traffic, too.”
A hotel booking bonanza is also on the cards with hotel occupancy numbers sitting at 94, 89 and 70 per cent on Thursday, Friday and Saturday respectively.
Last year, Gather Round, held on 4-6 April, had bookings at 87, 85 and 69 per cent on Thursday, Friday and Saturday respectively.
Intercontinental Adelaide General Manager Erik Stuebe says the hotel is thrilled to welcome guests.
“With high occupancy across the four days, we’re proud to contribute to Adelaide’s thriving visitor economy and look forward to delivering the exceptional service we’re known for,” Mr Stuebe says.
2025 AFL Gather Round kicks off on Thursday, 10 April when the Adelaide Crows take on the Geelong Cats at Adelaide Oval.