The wait is finally over! The FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and the energy in the air is electric. You don’t need a stadium ticket to experience the thrilling goals, agonizing near-misses, and global camaraderie. The Independence Avenue CID is your ultimate local destination to soak in the tournament, whether you want to cheer in a crowd or host the ultimate watch party at home.

Our vibrant business district has everything you need to celebrate the beautiful game. Here is your guide to navigating the World Cup right here in the neighborhood.

Where to Watch: The Ultimate Fan Zones

Looking for unmatched atmosphere, incredible food, and giant screens? Two Avenue favorites have stepped up their game to become the official viewing headquarters for soccer fans:

• Elvira’s Cakes (3838 Independence Ave.)
  If you want a truly massive viewing experience, head straight to Elvira’s. They have transformed their outdoor pergola into the largest screen in the Northeast specifically for the tournament! To ensure you don’t miss a single minute of the action, they have extended their operating hours. If there is a match scheduled, Elvira’s is almost certainly open, serving up their famous treats while the drama unfolds on the big screen.
• Taqueria Mexico #2 (5920 Independence Ave.)
  For a classic sports bar vibe paired with authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine, Taqueria Mexico has you covered. They have lined up multiple televisions behind the bar and throughout the dining room, all tuned directly into the matches. They’ve even set up a giant tournament calendar to track the live results of every single game. Like Elvira’s, Taqueria Mexico has extended their hours to accommodate soccer fans for early and late matches alike.

Gear Up: Host the Perfect Watch Party at Home

If your living room is your designated stadium, you can still bring the stadium energy home. Several Avenue retailers are stocked with officially licensed FIFA World Cup Merchandise to take your watch parties to the next level.

Whether you need party supplies for guests or the perfect gear to show your team pride, stop by these local spots:

• Walgreens | 5400 Independence Ave.
• Cosentino’s Price Chopper | 5800 Wilson Rd.
• ALDI | Both convenient neighborhood locations

What you’ll find: These locations are packed with World Cup essentials, including themed plates and napkins, plush collector dolls, hats, scarves, t-shirts, and much more for the soccer fanatics in your family.

Support your favorite team, support your local businesses, and let’s celebrate the world’s biggest sporting event together on Independence Avenue!