The most exciting season of the summer is sadly coming to a close: this Sunday, July 19, the World Cup final will play out between Argentina and Spain at 3 p.m. and the World Cup will officially be over. Toronto was lucky enough to be truly a part of the action, co-hosting the tournament and being the site of so many iconic soccer moments. While the final itself may not be happening in our city, there are plenty of watch parties happening in Toronto so that you can still be part of the action. Here are some of the top ones to attend.
Nathan Phillips Square
Nathan Phillips Square has been a site for World Cup fun all tournament long by broadcasting matches live in the square. And of course, the finals are no exception. Watch Argentina and Spain face off on the big screen among fans.
University of Toronto Front Campus
The sprawling Front Campus lawn at University of Toronto has been transformed into giant viewing party for the World Cup, and while Saturday’s semi-final game has been cancelled due to the air quality warning in the city, it looks like the final might still be on. Bring a blanket or low chair for comfort, and there will be food trucks around the circle. if you don’t bring your own snacks. Arrive early for the best view!
Footy T.O.Gether at Crafty Coyote
Reserve your spot for the free finals watch party at three side-by-side venues! Hosted by Matchday Social, they’re calling it Toronto’s biggest finals viewing party. Crafty Coyote, Mazcalero and Victory Cafe will all be taken over by the party, so there will be plenty of seating and plenty of great vibes.
88 World Cup Watch Party
If you want to treat the World Cup finals like a party, head to event space and music venue Division 88. They’re hosting a tailgate before kickoff (just reserve your free spot in advance), and they’re promising a full bar, food and both indoor and outdoor viewing all day long.
Dublin Calling
Dublin Calling is a massive sports bar, so it’s no surprise that they’ll be filling up the entire space for a finals watch party. Promising 10+ sound-on TVs to watch Messi and Yamal battle it out, you’ll have to book your standing room entry spot in advance and pay a small fee — guaranteed table bookings have already sold out.
Gibbons Irish Pub
Watch the World Cup final in a space that’s covered in screens so you won’t miss a moment even if you’re distracted while grabbing another pint. Gibbons Irish Pub is hosting a dedicated final event from 2 p.m. to late. The only tickets left are standing room entry, so grab yours now.
Evergreen Brick Works
Head to Evergreen Brick Works an hour before kickoff for a final watch party! Screened outdoors under the Pavilions, seating is first come, first served, so get there early. Food and drinks will be available, and a live DJ will be spinning some tunes to hype up the crowd.
Café Diplomatico
Italy may not have made it into the World Cup this year, but Café Diplomatico has still been a go-to spot for watching the games, screening every one on multiple TVs. For the final, they’ll be accepting walk-ins only. Expect an event that begins at 1 p.m. with a DJ pre-match set at 2 p.m., as well as a post-game party with a DJ. Watch it all play out on the massive video wall!
Belfast Love
Belfast Love has been transformed into a World Cup pop-up the entire tournament, as one of three Jameson Clubhouse matchday headquarters in the country. Enjoy a limited-time menu, exclusive swag and more — reservations are still available for the finals.