Where to see the big game on a big screen
National enthusiasm for this World Cup has reached fever pitch. Nowhere is that truer than in Zagreb, attested to by many foreign media outlets reporting on the scenes of joyous pandemonium witnessed after Croatia's successes.
Following previous Croatia games, fireworks have lit up the sky all over Zagreb, hundreds of cars have cruised around the city, horns blaring and flying flags. Beer-filled, smiling singers sway in the streets for hours afterwards.
You're assured a great atmosphere for any of the remaining games in every bar. But watching on an outdoor screen truly embraces the grand scale on which the competition is viewed here. Here are a few options:
The biggest of the outdoor events are on the main city square, Trg Ban Josip Jelačić, where the screen is sheltered within a large stage. Popular local music acts perform before the games, ramping up the atmosphere. If Croatian score, expect near riotous behaviour to ensue, a spine-tingling noise from the thousands gathered and perhaps even the occasional shower of beer. If Croatia wins, the partying will continue until dawn.
The biggest of the outdoor events are on the main city square, Trg Ban Josip Jelačić, where the screen is sheltered within a large stage. Popular local music acts perform before the games, ramping up the atmosphere. If Croatian score, expect near riotous behaviour to ensue, a spine-tingling noise from the thousands gathered and perhaps even the occasional shower of beer. If Croatia wins, the partying will continue until dawn.
Though not as epic as the main square, the outdoor screen on Strossmayer square is still pretty big and appears as part of a Food and Football festival. The fast food that's available here is a cut above, as are the craft beers, with a pale ale costing 25 kunas for 500ml. Seating is limited, so arrive early. Though showing all remaining games, commentaries may only be played here during Croatia's matches (although a large group of persistent English fans did persuade the smiling stage manager to put the sound on for their recent match against Sweden).
Every bar on Tkalčićeva will be showing the game and, popular as much with tourists as with locals, you're assured somewhat of an international audience along this stretch of bars. Medvedgrad brewery's Mali Medo outlet will have a big screen and you get to sample the beers from one of Zagreb's original craft breweries if choosing to watch the game here.
Further to the east of Tkalčićeva in Zagreb's upper town, Kaptol, lies the great outdoor market, Dolac. Just above that is Harat's Pub, part of an Irish theme pub chain. They will have a large screen positioned outside for the game, and offer a decent selection of beer brands and pizza.
Lauba is a building that combines permanent art exhibition space within a modern working environment. Alongside the artwork they showcase, they've also wholeheartedly embraced the World Cup. They have a large screen in their restaurant's courtyard. Travel just five tram stations from the west of the main square, up Ilica to Sveti Duh, in order to get there.
Being at least 30 minutes from central Zagreb (nearest tram station Zagreb Transporti, also Elka), The Garden Brewery is a bit of a trek. But, as it's a British-Croatian business, visiting English fans who may want to celebrate and cheer, unfettered by mindful manners, will be most welcome to do so here. Visiting here also ensures you're going to get the opportunity to try the excellent beer from one of Zagreb's best craft breweries.
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