Newcastle and Sydney Roosters supporters marched from opposite ends of the Harbour Bridge on Monday as the NRL introduced a new grand-final-week initiative.
Broncos supporters also joined ahead of the NRLW grand final against the Roosters.
That day, NRL executive chairman Peter V'landys confirmed a mystery 11-minute entertainment slot before Sunday's NRL grand final at Accor Stadium.
"There will be something, but I am not saying what it is. Stay tuned," V'landys told reporters.
The announcement followed public criticism after talks with Australian artist Tones and I broke down, leaving the NRL without a main act.
Kylie Minogue's headline-making AFL grand-final performance on Saturday added to the scrutiny.
V'landys had previously compared pre-match entertainment to a pickle in a burger and pledged to direct $1 million to grassroots rugby league.
He said the million dollars would still support disadvantaged children, while a smaller sum would fund the entertainment act.
"My prime aim was to give $1 million to kids who can't play the game," he said.
The NRL is also considering ways to expand grand-final week after players largely rejected a third-place playoff and an Indigenous All Stars game this season.
Both remain possible future options, but making the NRLW decider a stand-alone event, potentially next season, is considered more likely.
"We want a festival of rugby league. It's clean air, you have no other product on. You can really promote the game," V'landys said.
He said the NRLW could play on a Friday night at Allianz Stadium, adding, "The women's game is a great game and deserves to stand alone."