Essendon will take on Port Adelaide in Gather Round 2024.

The AFL today announced the round four fixture with the Bombers set to play under Friday night lights against the Power in front of a packed Adelaide Oval.

After the success of the inaugural Gather Round last season, the AFL signed a deal with the South Australian Government to host the event again until at least 2026.

"South Australia really turned it on, and we are excited to bring fans a bigger and better experience in 2024," AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said.

"Last year's Gather Round had the wonderful feel of a Grand Final week, from the footy festival and the zip line over the Torrens River, to the community engagement activities and all the open training sessions the clubs held around the town, it was just an incredibly fun atmosphere which we are looking to top next season."

SA Premier Peter Malinauskas encouraged footy fans to get in early to book their flights and accommodation for the event.

"Visitors who came to South Australia for the inaugural Gather Round loved it, and those who missed out wished they were here," he said.

Essendon v Port Adelaide.
Friday April 5, 2024.
7:40pm (local time)