After four years, the World Cup is finally back — and closer to home than ever, because the United States contains 11 of the 16 cities hosting the tournament. Even though none of those 11 cities are Gainesville, you can still get a taste of the atmosphere by joining the crowd at any of these watch parties.
The Queen’s Arms
Gainesville’s only traditional British pub will be serving up samples and freebies as the United States plays its first match of the competition against Paraguay on Friday at 9 p.m. As stated in the pub’s poster: “Come for the World Cup — stay for the Wrexham lager.”
Address: 5323 SW 91st Terrace
Samba Brazilian Kitchen
This local Brazilian restaurant will broadcast the games both indoors and outdoors starting Thursday afternoon with the first match of the World Cup: Mexico vs. South Africa. On Saturdays, the restaurant will host meet-ups for player sticker trading. Dine on authentic Brazilian food as you watch your team fight to take home the trophy.
Address: 5141 SW 91st Way
Cypress & Grove Brewery
Once a historic icehouse, this location has been transformed into a 15-barrel microbrewery using the same water the old ice factory did. Over 85 World Cup games will be broadcast at the brewery, which will feature a rotating selection of food trucks. The brewery will also extend its hours to feature certain matches.
Address: 1001 NW Fourth St
Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant
In collaboration with Telemundo Gainesville, Las Carretas will host a watch party for the Mexico vs. South Africa game on Thursday starting at 2 p.m. Free Telemundo Gainesville swag will be available while supplies last.
Address: 3501 SW Second Ave
Blackadder Brewing Company
Blackadder Brewing Company will host its “Futbol Is Life Match Watch Party” starting Thursday, extending its hours as necessary. The watch party will feature food from a variety of Gainesville restaurants, and customers will be treated to a free shot when their team scores a goal.
Address: 618 NW 60th St
The Swamp Restaurant
This iconic Gainesville sports bar will host a World Cup Challenge, giving customers the chance to win an exclusive World Cup Challenge T-shirt by sipping their way through the bar’s 10 World Cup-inspired specialty cocktails, each made to represent a different country.
Address: 1104 SW Second Ave
First Magnitude Brewing Company
First Magnitude Brewing Company will host World Cup games with food trucks to accompany its specialty brews from around the world. On Saturday, broadcasts of the games will take place alongside the brewery’s “Pride Party.”
Address: 1220 SE Veitch St
Burrito Factory & Cantina
If your loyalties lie with team Mexico, check out this Mexican restaurant that features game-day specials starting Thursday as it hosts its “America Cup 2026” watch party.
Address: 7 SE First Ave
Contact Christopher Rodriguez at crodriguez@alligator.org. Follow him on X @ChrisRodri29386.
