Maine Sports Bars Prepare for World Cup Watch Parties Across the State

As the FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11, sports establishments throughout Maine are transforming into bustling hubs for international soccer fandom. What began as an accidental pivot at the Portland Zoo has evolved into a statewide tradition, with multiple venues across the state committing to broadcast every match and hosting dedicated watch parties.

The story of the Portland Zoo's unexpected rise as a soccer watch destination illustrates how local businesses often fill gaps before official opportunities emerge. When the facility opened in 2018, co-owners Mark Miller and Chris Blake initially positioned themselves primarily around live music—a strategy they described as building on a "universal language" of sound. However, within nearly a decade, the zoo found itself serving a different primary audience: soccer enthusiasts.

The shift came organically. Early visitors requested that the establishment lean more heavily into soccer coverage, and rather than resisting, the owners embraced the opportunity. "Unbeknownst to us, we were filling a void that we didn't really realize," Miller explained. "Soccer quickly became a pillar of the community. Soccer is as much a universal language, without speaking."

That organic growth proved prophetic. The Portland Hearts of Pine men's professional team, which debuted in 2018, rapidly gained popularity and established itself as the premier watch party destination in the region. Their growing fanbase created sustained demand that neither the zoo nor other local venues could ignore.

Meanwhile, other Maine towns are following suit. In Waterville, the Silver Street Tavern—a downtown institution dating back to the 1970s—has announced plans to broadcast World Cup matches alongside its regular programming. Owner Shawn Michaud, a native of the area, confirmed that the establishment will feature American games prominently and even accommodate extended viewing times. "We'll definitely have the U.S. games for sure on the TVs, and we have a big screen TV that we can drop down," he stated. "It'll end up staying open late, beyond normal hours. It usually closes at 10 p.m., but if a game starts at 10, we'll tweak that."

The Hearts of Pine have taken matters further by organizing a special outdoor doubleheader at Monument Square on June 19. This event will feature the United States men's national team facing Australia, followed by the Hearts of Pine's road match against Westchester, South Carolina. The gathering promises to draw crowds eager to witness both high-profile and regional contests under open skies.

Beyond these headline attractions, a network of smaller establishments is positioning themselves to serve local audiences. The Portland Zoo itself continues to host frequent viewings, drawing crowds that include fans cheering for various teams simultaneously. Other venues across the state have similarly committed to the tournament schedule.

At the City of Portland, several pubs and restaurants are already set to air World Cup matches. Andy's Old Port Pub on Commercial Street, Bissell Brothers Brewing Company on Resurgam Place, Dock Fore on Fore Street, and Depot Pub in Gardiner all appear on the roster of potential viewing spots. In Lewiston, Legends Sports Bar and Grill at 4 Mollison Way stands ready to provide coverage. Mainely Brews Restaurant & Brewhouse in Waterville, Pat's Pizza in Yarmouth and Brunswick, and numerous additional locations including Gridiron Restaurant & Sports Pub in Lewiston and Hero's Sports Grill & Entertainment Center in Bangor complete the picture.

The broader context reveals tensions between local enthusiasm and governing body regulations. FIFA, the sport's global governing body, maintains exclusive rights to the World Cup and has implemented restrictions on unauthorized watch parties. While the organization has introduced permit systems for authorized gatherings—though fees remain undisclosed—the Portland Zoo has apparently navigated these requirements successfully enough to continue operating as a regular venue.

This regulatory landscape has prompted some local businesses to adopt cautious approaches. Smitty's Cinema, which operates GameLab locations in Sanford and Topsham, has chosen to show World Cup games on available television equipment while avoiding promotional efforts that might attract attention from FIFA officials. President Albert Waitt noted that such measures reflect frustration with governing bodies perceived as disconnected from the fan experience. "I don't think the people who run these governing bodies are really in touch with the fans who want to see this stuff," he observed. "They're just looking at their spreadsheets. They just make it difficult for local businesses."

Despite these challenges, the momentum toward widespread World Cup viewing appears strong. With the tournament commencing on June 11, Maine residents can expect a vibrant ecosystem of venues ready to bring the spectacle of international soccer to their communities. Whether through formal partnerships with professional teams like the Hearts of Pine or independent dedication to the tournament, the state's sports scene is poised to deliver memorable matchdays for fans of all levels.

From the historic pubs of Waterville to the modern facilities of Portland, the message is clear: the World Cup is coming home to Maine, and local establishments are prepared to welcome spectators with open arms.