Good Friday football has arrived, and the Western Bulldogs will take centre stage alongside North Melbourne in Round 4 next season.

The AFL today confirmed the news, with the game taking place at 4.20pm at Etihad Stadium.

Bulldogs CEO Gary Kent welcomed the opportunity to play in next year’s inaugural Good Friday marquee fixture.

“This is a terrific result for our Club, and we are grateful for the opportunity to play alongside North Melbourne on Good Friday next season.

“We are looking forward to putting on a great spectacle for all fans, but we also want to ensure the match enhances the Good Friday Appeal and the Royal Children’s Hospital’s fundraising efforts.”

Earlier this season, the AFL invited submissions from clubs for its 2017 fixture, putting the only available Friday timeslot of the home and away season up for grabs.