The FIFA World Cup 2026 is happening today through July 19 across North America. It starts today at 2 p.m. when Mexico and South Africa play, and South Korea and Czechia play at 9 p.m. Even though Chicago isn’t a host city, there are plenty of sports bars and watch parties to experience the World Cup matches and energy.
Why not Chicago? Chicago was seen as a prime location to host World Cup matches— we have the third-largest population, a travel hub, and the historic Soldier Field. But then-Mayor Rahm Emanuel withdrew the city’s bid in 2018, his final year in office. Emanuel didn’t want the cost to fall on the city and taxpayers when it came to transportation, security, and safety. The last straw? There was a chance FIFA could request a dome built over Soldier Field at the city’s expense.
- Sounds familiar: Gov. JB Pritzker expressed a similar sentiment for why he didn’t want taxpayers to foot the bill for the Bears to stay in Illinois.
Watch kickoff parties today:
- World Cup Party at SUNNYGUN in West Loop, which will include a giant screen, a DJ, happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m., and patio vibes.
- Latina Sweat Project World Cup Viewing Party in Pilsen with a live DJ, soccer-themed face paintings, cotton candy, popcorn, and aguas frescas.
- The Moonlighter in Logan Square is opening earlier for the match. Their full burger and beer menu will be available.
Recurring watch parties:
- Recess Chicago Fire Soccer Celebration in West Loop
- International Soccer Watch Parties at Fulton Market Social
- Nia Restaurant in West Loop
- Standard Bar & Grill in West Town
Bars to catch matches:
- Soccer House in West Town
- Cleo’s Pub in West Town
- AJ Hudson’s Public House in Lakeview
- Global Pub in North Center
- La Coco’s Pizza in Brighton Park
- Oso and the Bull in Pilsen
Want to feel like you’re there? Some AMC and Regal theaters are playing matches in Spanish using live cinematic audio and video.
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