Football match days offer tons of excitement for fans around the world. Whether it’s the thrill of a local derby or the intensity of a championship clash, the atmosphere of a match day is unparalleled. To give you an idea as to just how exciting things can get on the pitch for fans, here are two recent examples.
Earlier in April this year, as reported by The Guardian, Chelsea won against Manchester United in the Premier League. However, till eight minutes into extra time, United were ahead by 3-2. Yet, in the last two minutes of the game, Chelsea scored twice to win the game.
Similarly, a few weeks back in the Italian Serie A, Juventus suffered a defeat against Lazio. ESPN reported that Lazio scored three minutes into extra time in the second half and grabbed the victory. Thus, it’s evident that in just a matter of minutes and even seconds, football scorelines can change completely. More importantly, fans love all this thrill, which is why football match days at sports bars are always super enjoyable.
For sports bars, hosting these events can be a goldmine of opportunity. However, ensuring that your sports bar delivers an exceptional match day experience requires careful planning and execution. Here are a few tips to help you host a memorable football match day at your establishment.
Promote the Event Early and Often
The success of your football match day largely depends on getting the word out to potential patrons. Utilize social media platforms, your website, and local advertising to promote upcoming matches well in advance.
Create eye-catching graphics and engaging content that highlights the key fixtures, kick-off times, and any special promotions you’ll be running during the matches. Additionally, consider partnering with local football fan clubs or influencers to expand your reach and tap into their dedicated followings.
Have a Plan with Multiple Matches on the Same Day
Hosting multiple matches on the same day can be a logistical challenge. However, with the right approach, it can also be a lucrative opportunity to attract a wider audience.
Prioritize the most anticipated matches and allocate your screens accordingly, ensuring that each game has its dedicated viewing area to prevent conflicts among patrons. You can even use the picture-in-picture (PiP) feature in your smart TVs.
According to How-To Geek, the PiP feature was first seen in the 1980s. It is now making a comeback with smart and 4K TVs. Through this feature, you can relegate one football match to a smaller window while showcasing another. That way, you can effortlessly display two games at once on one TV.
You can even broadcast one or two of the matches and simply display the scoreboards for the others. A simple scoreboard app for TV will suffice here. All you need to do is set up the scoreboards and then display them on the TVs.
According to Keepthescore, displaying a scoreboard on a TV enhances participant engagement and provides them with essential information during a sporting event. It’s a fantastic method for keeping everyone involved and informed, especially at a sports bar.
Create a Festive Atmosphere
On match day, transform your sports bar into a football haven that immerses patrons in the excitement of the beautiful game. Deck out your venue with team banners, flags, and scarves to create a vibrant and colorful atmosphere.
Play anthems and chants associated with the competing teams to amp up the energy levels. Consider offering themed food and drink specials inspired by the countries or regions of the teams playing to add an extra layer of authenticity.
Ensure Ample Seating and Viewing Areas
One of the most critical factors for a successful football match day is providing comfortable seating and optimal viewing angles for patrons.
Arrange your seating layout to maximize the visibility of the screens showing the matches. Ensure that every seat in the house offers a clear view of the action. If space permits, consider installing multiple screens throughout your venue to accommodate larger crowds and prevent overcrowding around a single viewing area.
Offer a Diverse Menu
A great match day experience isn’t just about the football – it’s also about the food and drinks on offer.
Tailor your menu to cater to a diverse range of tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From nachos and burgers to salads and wraps, curate a menu that satisfies cravings and keeps patrons coming back for more.
Don’t forget to stock up on a variety of beverages, including beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do people watch football in sports bars?
People watch football in sports bars for the atmosphere, camaraderie with fellow fans, and the big screens that amplify the thrill of the game. It’s a shared experience that enhances the enjoyment of the sport.
How can you host a football match day party at home?
Transform your living room into a mini stadium with ample seating and a big screen. Stock up on snacks, drinks, and team merchandise to create a festive atmosphere that enhances the excitement of the game for everyone attending.
What should be used for decorating a sports bar?
For decorating a sports bar, consider using team pennants, jerseys, and memorabilia to create a vibrant atmosphere. Incorporate sports-themed artwork, neon signs, and big screens displaying live games to enhance the immersive experience for patrons.
In conclusion, hosting a football match day at your sports bar can be a rewarding endeavor. After all, it brings together fans from all walks of life to celebrate their love for the game.
By following these tips, you can establish your sports bar as the go-to destination for football fans in your community. With careful planning and a passion for the beautiful game, your sports bar can become the ultimate destination for unforgettable match day memories.