It comes down to France vs. Croatia in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Finals. The biggest tournament in soccer — or are we calling it football yet? — goes down Sunday, July 15. We’ve rounded up our favorite soccer bars, but these 2018 FIFA World Cup finals watch parties take the excitement to the next level.
On the grass at Industry City
Watch the World Cup finals at Sunset Park’s playground Industry City, which is reserving two of its outdoor courtyards for watch parties. Grab a frozen drink from the Frying Pan’s new outpost on dry land and grub from the Burger Joint, Avocaderia and more, and get ready to get loud. Free, Courtyard 1-2 and Courtyard 5-6, 274 36th St., Brooklyn
Lace up for the action at Brooklyn Bowl
Williamsburg’s bowling alley/music venue Brooklyn Bowl will open at 10 a.m. for a special all-ages screening of the World Cup finals, screening on all 14 screens throughout the venue with full sound on its concert audio system. Special happy hour deals will be in a effect during the game, including $5 beers, $6 frozen margaritas and $6 wine. If you’re up for a match-up of your own, mention “Bowling Special” at the door to receive half off your lane from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free, 61 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn
With Telemundo in Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center has installed bleachers and giant screens for fans to view the World Cup finals via Telemundo’s Spanish-language broadcast. Check out the vintage soccer jersey exhibit courtesy of Classic Football Shirts. Inspired to kick around a ball yourself? The New York City Football Club has installed a custom-built soccer field on Rockefeller Plaza with soccer-themed activities during and in between matches including pick-up games. Free, 45 Rockefeller Plaza
In the Kings Theater’s brand new courtyard
The Flatbush Caton Market is taking over the brand new courtyard of Brooklyn’s historic Kings Theatre for its World Cup viewing party. On the Kings Court from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., a live DJ will spin music while players face off up to 28 at a time on a 45-foot mobile soccer gaming theater in EA Sports FIFA ‘18! Branch Patties (formerly Smorgasburg staple Mr. Cutter’s), will be selling Caribbean patties, TNT Pineapple brings the jerk chicken and classic brunch food like chicken & waffles, and Jamerican Produce will be pouring the refreshments. Buy team swag on-site, too! $10, 1027 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn
Outdoors in DUMBO
The DUMBO Business Improvement District’s outdoor screenings are hugely popular. Gather with what can feel like half of Brooklyn at the Archway Under the Manhattan Bridge to watch the final match-up on a super-size screen. The usual lunchtime vendors will be available for game-day grub or pack your own picnic; there’s also a virtual reality soccer experience from vrbar and on-demand Instagram printing by Luster. Blankets and chairs are welcome, but please leave your vuvuzelas and noisemakers, not to mention alcoholic beverages, at home. Free, 58-80 Pearl St., Brookly
On top of a roof in Midtown
One of New York’s most popular rooftop bars, 230 Fifth, has supported soccer in the city even out of season. For the World Cup, they’ve been hosting viewing parties — and expect the biggest one yet for the finals. Watch along on TVs throughout the bar’s lounge and a large projection screen with hundreds of fans, with happy hour drink specials and a brunch buffet ($29 for adults, $15 kids). Free with RSVP, 230 Fifth Ave., Flatiron
On top of a roof in Brooklyn
Bushwick’s scenic new rooftop concert venue Elsewhere opens at 10 a.m. for a World Cup Final watch party with the action projected onto a massive 30×18-foot screen with full hi-fi sound. There will be plenty of seats as well as standing room, and drink specials throughout the game. There’s no cover but you must RSVP if you want any hope of getting in. Free, 599 Johnson Ave., Brooklyn
Sponsored by Budweiser
If you won’t be too distracted by celebrities, Budweiser is throwing a rager at the Altman Building hosted by Men In Blazers, who’ll host a pregame show and provide analysis during the match. Start with kegs & eggs for breakfast followed by the match on a massive screen with giveaways of branded gear designed by Kid Super, then a concert featuring Charli XCX. Doors open at 8 a.m. and RSVPs are necessary but don’t guarantee entry, so plan accordingly. Free, must be 21+, 135 18th St., Chelsea
