Where to watch the World Cup — June 14 – July 15, 2018

Despite the stubborn, oft-repeated contention that Americans would never embrace soccer as the rest of the world has, American soccer fandom appears to be on the rise. Even the most casual lover of soccer — sorry, football — can get excited about the World Cup. After all, it is the most widely viewed sporting event in the world (yes, even bigger than the Olympics). The U.S. team isn’t in the running this time, but in the spirit of good sportsmanship, we’ve rounded up a few places to watch games, which run now through July 15.

Watch with the Philadelphia Union
Various locations
Our own homegrown Major League Soccer team will be at four viewing parties around the Philly region throughout the World Cup, starting at the Green Parrot in Newtown, Pennsylvania, Friday at 2 p.m. On Sunday, the team will be at The Village Pub in Swedesboro, New Jersey, and, on June 28, the Union will be at the roaring stadium location of Chickie and Pete’s in South Philadelphia. For the final match on July 15, you can catch the team at Brauhaus Schmitz.

Brauhaus Schmitz
718 South St.
This German-themed, South Street staple has brought in extra TVs for World Cup season, and it’s offering beer specials and VIP packages for German matches. The $10 cover buys your first beer, and a $60 VIP ticket gets you unlimited beers from an hour before game time until the final whistle, plus food tickets and access to a special lounge. It’s opening at 9:30 a.m. on game days, and owners will open even earlier if there’s demand for games that start at 8 a.m.

The Black Sheep
247 S. 17th St.
If you want to be surrounded by true soccer fans, the Black Sheep is the answer. But beware — it’s a known hangout for Manchester United fans, so if you’re not rooting for England, you may want to look elsewhere (or just keep it to yourself).

Garage Fishtown
100 E. Girard Ave.
Take a break from the games to play some games of your own at Garage, which has not only nine TVs and 400 beers on offer, but also pool tables and Skee-Ball. It’s hosting a World Cup viewing party Sunday for Germany vs. Mexico. The Fishtown Football Club will be in attendance, and there will be specials from Love City Brewing and New Liberty Distillery.

Fieldhouse Philly
1150 Filbert St.
For surefire viewing comfort, head to Fieldhouse, which boasts no fewer than 35 televisions, so you’re guaranteed a view wherever you are. They’re also offering up $3 Bud Light drafts and $4 Neshaminy Creek drafts throughout the games.

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