Toronto is about to host one of its biggest World Cup matches yet, and those who don’t have tickets to the stadium can still cheer on their favourite team, with several match screenings available across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
As the city prepares to host Portugal vs. Croatia at the Toronto Stadium on Thursday, the Nathan Phillips Square match screening has been cancelled due to the ongoing heat wave.
But that doesn’t mean Torontonians who don’t have tickets to the stadium will be missing out on the fun, as Now Toronto has rounded up some of the best watch parties in the GTA where they can catch the historic match.
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FIFA FAN FESTIVAL
Location: 250 Fort York Blvd.
Although the Nathan Phillips Square screening is now cancelled, the game is still on at the FIFA Fan Festival, where the match is still set to be screened at 7 p.m.
This event is free to attend with general admission tickets, and attendees can enjoy live broadcasts, interactive experiences, and bites from more than 30 food vendors.
For more on today’s match, head to the FIFA Fan Festival website.
LITTLE PORTUGAL
IDK Social Bar
Location: 172 Ossington Ave.
With Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo in Toronto for the game, there’s no place like the Little Portugal neighbourhood for a watch party.
IDK Social Bar will be screening the match, in what promises to be the “ultimate World Cup watch party.” Fans can have food and drinks while enjoying the screening.
Tickets for this watch party are limited and can be reserved on Eventbrite.
Amigos da Dundas Sports Bar
Location: 1570 Dundas St. W.
Another popular Little Portugal spot, Amigos da Dundas Sports Bar will also be screening the Portugal vs. Croatia match. The restaurant is known for its delicious Portuguese bites and drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
Tickets are not needed for this spot, and attendees are welcome to walk in.
Lula Lounge
Location: 1585 Dundas St. W.
Having screened all World Cup matches so far, events venue Lula Lounge will also be hosting a watch party on Thursday.
This venue features a 16-foot LED screen along with five 75-inch TVs positioned throughout the venue, so fans can’t miss a beat of the game. In addition, they can enjoy delicious bites, cocktails, and cold beer while cheering on their team.
Attendees are advised that RSVPing online does not guarantee seating, and those that wish to reserve a spot can purchase $40 in food credit in advance through OpenTable. For more information, visit Eventbrite.
LIBERTY VILLAGE
Croatia House
Location: Toronto Event Centre (15 Saskatchewan Rd.)
For those looking to soak in the Croatian energy and cheer on the team, Croatia House is returning this Thursday.
The event will include a watch party starting at 7 p.m. as well as a pre-game celebration, which starts at 1 p.m. and extends until the match begins.
Admission to the event is $25 to attend, and tickets can be purchased online.
ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
Lodge on Queen
Location: 251 Queen St. W.
Events venue Lodge on Queen will be screening the game, offering a full game watch party experience.
Attendees can watch the game across three screens, play on the venue’s foosball tables, and enjoy delicious food and special drinks while they cheer on their teams.
This event is free to attend, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP online, although walk-ins are also welcome.
Rendezviews
Location: 229 Richmond St. W.
Another popular sports screening spot, Rendezviews will also be screening the Portugal vs. Croatia match.
Those attending can enjoy an energetic atmosphere in the heart of downtown Toronto, while enjoying CN Tower views, delicious drinks and snacks.
There are different passes available for this watch party, including:
- A Gold pass for four to six people, which includes a $300 table fee and $200 bar spend
- A Green pass for four to six people, which includes a $200 table fee and $200 bar spend
- A Red pass for eight people, which includes a $250 table fee and $270 bar spend
- An Orange pass for four to six people, which includes a $100 table fee
- A White pass, which is first come first serve
For more information, fans can visit Rendezviews’ website.
DOVERCOURT
Don Quixote Restaurant
Location: 1331 St. Clair Ave. W.
There’s nothing like watching Portugal while enjoying some Portuguese food, and this spot offers just that.
Don Quixote is known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine, including fresh seafood, seasoned meats, and shareable appetizers. The restaurant will be hosting Thursday’s game, offering tables for those who want to stay cool indoors or enjoy the patio atmosphere.
Spots are limited, so attendees are encouraged to book their reservations by calling 416-652-7777.
MISSISSAUGA
Celebration Square
Location: 300 City Centre Dr., Mississauga
The World Cup screening at Nathan Phillips Square might be cancelled due to the heat, but it’s still on at Celebration Square in Mississauga.
The Portugal vs. Croatia’s match will be screened at the square on Thursday, in an event that is free and accessible to the public.
Information about the event and any possible cancellations can be found on Instagram.
The Rack Billiards & Bar
Location: 1331 Crestlawn Dr., Unit C
Known as a popular destination for billiards, snacks and refreshing drinks, this spot promises a lively and electric atmosphere for fans looking to cheer on their team on Thursday.
Fans can experience every moment of the highly-awaited match, while enjoying some of its best menu features.
Those looking to book a table can do so by calling 905-629-3333.
BRAMPTON
Garden Square
Location: 12 Main St. N., Brampton
The City of Brampton will also be hosting its own World Cup screening at Garden Square.
Fans are invited to enjoy the live broadcast on the big screen, while taking part in a vibrant community atmosphere that invites visitors and residents to cheer on their teams and celebrate soccer.
This event is free to attend.
WHITBY
Location: 695 Rossland Rd. W.
Whitby also features its own screening at Whitby Soccer Dome, which includes a big screen and speakers that allow fans to make the most of their experience.
Attendees are welcome to bring their own chair or sit in the lawn, while enjoying food truck bites and an energetic atmosphere.
