Where to Watch the World Cup in Portland
Hot take: It's about time that soccer has garnered so much attention in the United States. In Maine, specifically, the Portland Hearts of Pine definitely helped kick open that door. However, the World Cup has always been a celebration of competition around the globe. Like the Olympics, there is an undeniable appeal to the spectacle. Even if you typically only watch the "Big Four "American team sports, the energy surrounding other games is hypnotizing.
Like any sport, soccer should be celebrated with food, drinks, and friends. So, before kickoff, plan your World Cup screenings by checking out some of these spots around the city.
For die-hard fans
Rí Rá Irish Pub
Other than the Hearts of Pine stadium, Rí Rá is the closest thing Portland has to an official soccer headquarters. Consistently screening the sport year-round, the Irish pub will undoubtedly be packed with fans. Not just those looking to check out the action. We're talking fans.
You have to catch at least one game here. With traditional Irish fare and a huge selection of beers, it's the most undeniably fitting atmosphere to watch the tournament. But get there as early as you can. Soccer is a lot less fun when watching it through a window while standing in line waiting for the bouncer to let you in.
Portland Zoo
There are only three words in the description box on the Portland Zoo Facebook page: "BEER. MUSIC. SOCCER." Brother, all that's missing is a bed in the keg room, and there would be no reason to leave the place.
Frequently cited by local soccer fans as a gathering place for major international matches and Hearts of Pine supporters, Portland Zoo has become a hotbed for soccer fanatics. It's small but mighty. Best of all, not only does the spot have great beer, but the can art is sublime.
For Sports Bar Loyalists
Fore Play Sports Pub
Of course, any sports bar worth its weight in sea salt will be showing World Cup games. For multiple TVs screening a variety of sports, turn to the classic spots.
Fore Play Sports Pub on Fore Street is always a go-to for game time. In addition to wall-to-wall TVs, the bar has everything for a great night out, including pool, darts, foosball, and arcade games. The pub fare and plastic-cup drinks keep everything grounded, without any frills to distract you from what's happening on the pitch.
Oddfellahs
Oddfellahs is another sports-bar staple in Portland. Honestly, there's something really underrated about a spot that only has a handful of beers on tap; that's the kind of place you go when you know exactly what you're in the mood for. Moreover, offering a "cooler full of bottles and cans" is a dog whistle for some of us who prefer to save our decision-making for whether the referees are on the take by the rival team.
Oddfelllahs is also Maine's in-person sportsbook, adding extra energy to the already raucous environment. But even if you're not a gambler, go just for the food; the BBQ Pork Wings alone are a sure bet (pun completely intended).
Special One-Off World Cup Events
U.S. vs. Paraguay Watch Party
As part of their "Maine Soccer Summer" series, the Portland Hearts of Pine is planning two different watch parties. One of them takes place at the State Theatre on June 12th, where the storied Portland venue is screening the first U.S. game of the tournament.
Doors open at 8 p.m. and kickoff is at 9 p.m. Admission is free, but you must get a ticket for entry, and they will certainly be going fast (again, we're not just saying that).
Monument Square Doubleheader Watch Party
Another event the Hearts are hosting is in Monument Square on June 19th. Billed as a double-header, the open-air festivities start with a 3 p.m. screening of the U.S. vs. Australia. Then, later that night, fans can stick around to watch the Hearts take on the Westchester SC at 7 p.m.
For fans who have never seen either the U.S. or the Hearts hit the pitch, this event is a must-see. There's no better introduction to an unfamiliar sport than watching it in the company of people who have made hardcore fandom their entire lives.
Where are you watching the World Cup? Let us know at hello@mainecoastlife.com.