Quick Read
- Tickets for Gather Round 2026 at Suncorp Stadium are now on sale, with pre-sale windows for members before general public release.
- The event runs May 14-17, featuring all eight NRL matches from Round 11 and Women’s State of Origin Game 2.
- Multiple ticket options available: four-day, three-day, single-day, and premium hospitality packages.
- Supported by Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council to boost local tourism and economy.
Every year, rugby league fans from across Australia make a pilgrimage to Brisbane for Magic Round—an electrifying festival of footy that’s become part of the sport’s cultural calendar. In 2026, the event returns to Suncorp Stadium from May 14 to 17, promising four days packed with action, drama, and community spirit.
The anticipation is already palpable. This week, tickets for Gather Round 2026 have officially gone on sale, and fans are scrambling to secure their spot. The event will showcase all eight NRL matches from Round 11, plus the second match of the Ampol Women’s State of Origin series, marking a significant moment for both men’s and women’s rugby league. With exclusive pre-sale windows for club members and NRL account holders, supporters are getting early access before the general public sale opens on December 4, as reported by NRL.com.
What makes Magic Round special is more than the games—it’s the sense of belonging that comes from gathering thousands of fans under one roof. Suncorp Stadium, the beating heart of Queensland sports, transforms into a meeting place for families, die-hard supporters, and newcomers alike. The festival kicks off on Thursday, May 14, with the highly anticipated Women’s State of Origin Game 2. This match isn’t just a curtain-raiser; it’s a celebration of the growing influence and excitement around women’s rugby league, giving fans a chance to witness elite athletes battle for state pride.
The schedule is a feast for any rugby league enthusiast. Friday night brings clashes between the Sharks and Bulldogs, and the Rabbitohs versus the Dolphins—games known for their fierce rivalries and unpredictable outcomes. Saturday ups the ante with three consecutive matches: Wests Tigers face Sea Eagles, Roosters meet Cowboys, and Eels take on Storm. Each game promises its own narrative, with players chasing points, redemption, and the kind of moments that become legend. By Sunday, the Titans and Knights, Warriors and Broncos, and Panthers and Dragons will round out the weekend, ensuring there’s drama until the final whistle.
For those looking to immerse themselves fully, four-day passes offer access to every match and every moment. Fans can choose from a range of ticket options—including single-day, multi-day, and premium hospitality packages. According to NRL.com, club ticketed members received first dibs, followed by non-ticketed members and account holders. The tiered release structure reflects the league’s commitment to rewarding loyal supporters while keeping the door open for newcomers.
Behind the scenes, the festival is a testament to collaboration. The Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland, and Brisbane City Council, via the Brisbane Economic and Development Agency, have thrown their support behind the event. Their backing ensures that Magic Round continues to boost the local economy, bring tourism dollars to the city, and showcase Brisbane as a vibrant destination for sport and entertainment.
But Magic Round is more than an economic driver. It’s a chance for fans to see their heroes up close, for families to bond over shared memories, and for grassroots rugby league to shine on a national stage. The inclusion of the Women’s State of Origin alongside men’s fixtures signals a growing commitment to equality and representation in sport—a trend that’s reshaping rugby league’s future.
Ticketing options are designed to be flexible. Four-day passes are ideal for the die-hards who want every minute, while three-day and single-day passes cater to those with limited time or particular match interests. Hospitality packages, available via NRL.com/hospitality, provide a premium experience for fans looking to combine sport with luxury.
For players, Magic Round is an opportunity to perform under the spotlight. With every NRL club featured, the stakes are high. The festival atmosphere can lift teams—or expose weaknesses. In recent years, matches have been defined by last-minute tries, unexpected upsets, and individual brilliance. Kaeo Weekes’ match-defining try in 2025 is still fresh in the minds of many, a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that Magic Round offers.
The community impact is just as profound. Local businesses see a surge in activity, hotels fill up, and the streets buzz with anticipation. For Brisbane, Magic Round is more than a sporting event—it’s a celebration of identity, resilience, and togetherness. As the city prepares to welcome fans once again, there’s an unmistakable sense of pride in hosting one of rugby league’s marquee occasions.
Looking ahead to May 2026, the story is set: eight blockbuster NRL matches, a pivotal Women’s State of Origin clash, and thousands of fans ready to write the next chapter in Magic Round history. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a newcomer drawn by the spectacle, Gather Round 2026 promises memories that will last long after the final siren.
Magic Round’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to unite people—across generations, backgrounds, and allegiances. By blending elite competition with genuine community spirit, the 2026 edition stands as a testament to rugby league’s power to inspire, entertain, and bring Australia together. As tickets go on sale and the schedule is set, the stage is ready for another unforgettable festival at Suncorp Stadium.