BRISBANE will host matches at the Gabba on Easter Thursday for the next three seasons.

The first two games in 2020 and 2021 will feature Collingwood, with another Victorian side to play in the 2022 fixture. 

The Lions and the Magpies played on Easter Thursday in round five this year, with Nathan Buckley's side triumphing by 62 points in front of a nearly sold-out crowd of 34,017.

Former Lion Dayne Beams returned to the Gabba in round five. Picture: Getty Images
 
Brisbane's astonishing surge up the ladder this year from 15th to second has been well received by its fans, with attendances rising by 34 per cent and membership at its highest number since 2005.

The deal has been arranged between the AFL, the Queensland State Government and the two clubs.

"Nearly 35,000 packed the Gabba on the Thursday night before Easter this season," AFL general manager of clubs and broadcasting Travis Auld said.

Footy fans are back at the Gabba. Picture: Getty Images

"Once a traditional time slot for both these clubs, we are delighted the Queensland State Government, the Lions and Collingwood have committed to making it a marquee timeslot in Brisbane."

Brisbane CEO Greg Swann said the deal was a reflection of the Lions' strong form both on and off the field.

"We believe we have been rewarded after producing a successful year on and off the field," Swann said.

"Chris Fagan and his men play an exciting brand of footy that will light up the Gabba and TV screens each Easter for the next three years."

Collingwood CEO Mark Anderson said building a tradition between the two clubs – who played off in consecutive Grand Finals back in 2002 and 2003 – was appealing. 

Lions and Pies rivalry dates back to the Grand Finals of 2002-03. Picture: AFL Photos

"The club is excited about building an Easter Thursday tradition at The Gabba between the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood," Mr Anderson said.

"The Easter Thursday fixture allows our supporters to travel to watch a great match of football and then stay on to enjoy Easter and all that Queensland has to offer."

Collingwood and Brisbane could meet in next Saturday's preliminary final if the Lions overcome Greater Western Sydney this weekend.