Sports bars across the city ready for World Cup watch parties
From Strange Fellows to Shark Club: 17 spots locals are planning to hit for FIFA matches, with patios and extended hours.
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With the FIFA World Cup just days away, Vancouver's sports bars are gearing up for an influx of fans looking to catch matches with a crowd. Locals have been sharing their favourite watch-party spots across the city.
The list spans the full Vancouver map: Strange Fellows Brewing on Commercial Drive, Bells and Whistles on Fraser, Pinche Taco Shop on Seymour, Patón Tacos and Cantina on Robson, Donnellan's and Smith's Irish Pubs in Gastown, Moltaqa Moroccan Restaurant on Mainland, and Blarney Stone on Carrall. The Portside Pub on Alexander, Banter Room and Mahony's Tavern (at the Vancouver Convention Centre), Red Card Sports Bar on Smithe, and Shark Club on West Georgia also made the list. Additional popular spots include Craft Beer Market (multiple locations), Good Co. (multiple locations), Parallel 49 on Triumph, The Cambie on Cambie, and Greta Bar on West Cordova.
Before heading out, it's smart to call ahead and confirm the bar will be showing your match and that the sound will be on. Some establishments have made special arrangements for the tournament — extended patios, hired extra staff, and later hours — so it's worth checking what each venue is offering.
While some locals were tight-lipped about their go-to spots to ensure they'd still get a seat, the sheer number of options across the city means there's a watch-party spot for every neighbourhood and every vibe.