Essendon’s getting set to celebrate its historic 150-year anniversary with a series of events surrounding the celebratory blockbuster game against old rival Carlton in round 13.

The Bombers are excited to announce official details for the events kicking off at their spiritual home, Windy Hill, which promises to be an extravaganza for Dons and footballing fans alike. Across three days from June 9 to 11, the Bombers will host a range of events to connect fans, giving everyone the opportunity to immerse themselves and honour Essendon's rich history.

Event details and information on getting involved are below.

Open training - Thursday, June 9.

Commencing at Windy Hill, the anniversary celebrations will begin with an open training session before the game, giving fans the opportunity to watch their side prepare for the game while collecting player signature cards. Open training will commence at 10:15am.

Fed Square to the goal square - A legendary lead-in for Round 13 v Carlton - Friday, June 10.

The marquee event of the Bombers' anniversary celebration centres around the round 13 blockbuster against the Blues - Essendon's first-ever opponent.

The game-day festivities will begin at Federation Square from 2pm with a gathering of fans and iconic Essendon legends, presented by Fujitsu General Australia and supported by Liberty Financial, with activities to include:

  • McCafe Coffee Van
  • Fujitsu AFL Skills Zone
  • Liberty signing session, with past EFC players, photo wall and handball activation
  • Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation badge-making
  • EFC kids zone
  • Amart 'On the Couch' featuring Essendon past players
  • Giveaways

The congregation will conclude at 6:15pm with an iconic march to the 'G along Birrarung Marr, where fans can journey to the game with club legends Mark Harvey, Simon Madden, Kevin Sheedy and Terry Daniher.

All fans are encouraged to arrive at the 'G by 7pm for the pre-game performance - a once-in-a-generation opening-ceremony style celebration of the Essendon Football Club.

Keen to watch the game in style? Tickets are now on sale for the 150th Celebration Function where you can watch the game from level 2. Click here for more information.

150-Year Gala Dinner - A night-of-nights for Essendon's history - Saturday, June 11.

To wrap up the three-day extravaganza, presented by Fujitsu General Australia and supported by Liberty Financial, the Bombers will host their 150th Year Gala event on Saturday, June 11 at Centrepiece at Melbourne Park.

The event will have the single-most amount of Essendon people - including past players and staff - in the one room to countdown the top-five moments from the club’s 150 years, as voted by the fans.

Tickets to the Gala Dinner are strictly limited, and can be purchased here.

Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell said the 150th anniversary festivities will be an excellent opportunity for the red and black family to gather and celebrate the club's history.  

“This momentous occasion will be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration,” Campbell said.

“The blockbuster Friday night game against Carlton at the MCG will be an extraordinary experience for any Essendon or football fan.

“This three-day festival will allow the red and black family to connect with fellow fans, reflect on their favourite moments and meet club legends while celebrating the club’s 150th anniversary.”