How to plan an epic watch party for summer’s biggest soccer tournament
The only thing more fun than watching this summer’s world soccer tournament? Hosting a party for it.
Soccer’s biggest global tournament is back on the North American time zone for the first time in 32 years — which means it’s your chance to plan a soccer watch party for the ages. Even better? For the first time in its 96-year history, the cup will be co-hosted by three countries: Canada, the United States and Mexico.
As the tournament begins on June 11, continues until July 19, and spans 104 games, there’s plenty of time for planning a bash that will have all your neighbours wishing they were invited. From the initial planning stages, to technology considerations, snacks and oh-so-much more, here’s what you need to know to make it epic.
Start planning your soccer watch party ASAP
Even with many bars and restaurants running extended hours for the cup, about five billion people traditionally watch the games across the world on television and IRL, so if you’re thinking about booking out a restaurant or bar for your party, do so now. (It’s summer after all, and patio seating will be at a premium.) The busiest date is expected to be the final match on July 19, but interest is expected to build as the tournament heats up over July.
Prep your streaming service
If your party is at home, how are you planning to watch the games? Have you subscribed to the right sites for the right games? Also key is making sure your connection is solid — especially when all your friends show up and ask for your Wifi password. If you’re having to subscribe to an online host you’ve never used before, testing things out a few days and again some hours before can help prevent unexpected technological surprises and save you from missing those once-in-a-lifetime penalty kicks.
Set the mood
Whether elevated or delightfully kitschy (think black and white striped streamers), decorations, music and lights are ideal ways to take your watch party to the next level. More of a costume-party fan? Why not have your guests dress up in themes or colours representing the country they are cheering on?
Don’t be afraid to gamify your party a little bit — this is a sporting event after all. Whether it’s soccer ball balloons littering a turf-style rug you set up indoors, turning your backyard into a mini field, or even recreating team benches for your loved ones to sit on, these thoughtful additions will make this a party to remember.
Prepare your entertainment for halftime
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Plan your menu
Outside of the games themselves, the biggest key to a successful soccer watch party is the snacks and drink. Set up a menu with multiple options or a buffet-style table with allergens separated and labelled for your guests. Lean into the theme with cookies that resemble soccer balls or the infamous green turf, organize your snacks into colours to match yellow and red referee cards, or create a simple themed cocktail. The sky’s the limit — as long as you don’t run out of snacks by half-time. You don’t want your guests crying foul.
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Britt Jones