Late night and ‘full throttle’ – the World Cup watch parties going all out
A Historic Venue with a Modern Twist
Late night and full throttle – The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching, and fans are preparing to gather in unconventional spaces to support their teams. One such location is the Victoria Baths in Manchester, where a century-old public pool has been transformed into a sports hub. Stained-glass windows now frame the view of a grand, empty space that once hosted bathers for nearly a hundred years. Instead, the venue features a towering screen and immersive sound system, designed to deliver a vibrant atmosphere for those watching the matches. The sloped floor ensures visibility for all attendees, while a long bar in the adjacent room and food trucks in the car park outside add to the lively setting.
“We don’t have the experience, but we have the enthusiasm,” says Jack Nunes, the event’s organizer. He conceived the idea just months ago, inspired by a casual conversation with a friend who plays 11-a-side football. The Victorian building, which requires a massive carpet to cover its 170-square-metre space, is set to host up to 500 fans. However, the risk of spilled beer turning the pool into an icy surface keeps the team on high alert.
Scaling Up with Fan-Powered Events
Mark Graham, a veteran in event planning, has turned his expertise into a network of World Cup viewing spots across England and Scotland. His company, 4TheFans, operates 15 venues, ranging from Aberdeen to Bournemouth, offering a communal experience for fans. With ticket prices starting at £10 for general admission, these locations promise a mix of entertainment, food, and energy. The events feature large screens, organized chaos, and even light shows to enhance the excitement. Music playlists shift depending on the game’s momentum, with DJs playing upbeat tracks when British teams are trailing and celebrating England’s dominance with full-throttle anthems.
“It’s a big room experience—everything from the massive screen to the super energy,” Graham explains. “Every fan has a great view, and the atmosphere is like a party.” He notes that the Hastings Pier was one of the first sites for his Euro 2021 watch parties, and now the same venues will host the World Cup.
Scotland’s Unique Contribution
Across the border, a Scottish venue is making its debut in the World Cup watch party scene. Located near Edinburgh, a barn made of steel and wood will serve as the gathering spot for fans. The structure, typically used for weddings, will host a late-night event as the Scots prepare to face Haiti on 14 June. Kieran White, the venue’s operator, is combining his passion for football and hospitality to create a memorable experience. “For me to be able to combine two of my favourite things and give other people a great space to watch the World Cup is fantastic,” he shares.
The castle’s ruins, still under renovation, will be illuminated in blue to mark the occasion. With the first match starting at 2am, White has ensured guests will stay fueled with haggis pizza, whisky mayo, and Balmoral chicken pies. To keep spirits high before the game, he’s also set up goals in the surrounding fields, blending local culture with the global spectacle.
From the historic baths of Manchester to the rustic barns of Scotland, the World Cup is inspiring creative ways to celebrate. Whether it’s through immersive sound systems, themed food, or late-night gatherings, these events are redefining how fans experience the tournament. The success of such initiatives will depend on organizers like Nunes and Graham navigating logistical hurdles while keeping the energy alive for every match.
