The Beautiful Game Chicago 2010

The World Cup 2010 is right around the corner (actually 6 days away to be exact), and and people all over the world will sitting in front of their TV, heading to the local pub, or sneaking a peek on the internet while at work to stay up-to-date on all the matches. Die hard fans on the west coast will be losing sleep in the next month from rising in the wee hours of the morning to watch the earlier games, but luckily, Chicagoans only have to get up by 6:30am (which still may prove to be difficult). But, the big question is: Where will YOU be for all these games?

Chicago is definitely a sports town, and there will be no holding back for the World Cup. Find any local taqueria and you will be sure to find the games playing. But, to really get into the fan spirit and have an amazing World Cup viewing experience you cannot miss these two special Chicago viewing parties.

World Cup Public Viewing Party at DALEY PLAZA – Friday, June 11th, FREE

Watch the kick-off game with other soccer fans as the host country takes on Mexico in a free viewing party at the Daley Plaza at 9:00am. Then, stick around for the France vs. Uruguay game at 1:30pm.  The games will be shown on a giant screen in the middle of the plaza. Beyond the game there will be food vendors, fan challenges, and contests. You can even get your photo taken with the FIFA mascot.

World Cup Viewing Party at MONTROSE BEACH – Saturday, June 12th, FREE

Head over the Montrose Beach to watch the games on a mega screen right on the sandy beach. Bring a cooler, food, and plenty of sunscreen to watch Argentina vs. Nigeria at 9:00am and the United States vs. England at 1:30pm. There will also be food vendors, the opportunity to play in the 2010 adult Chicago World Cup Tourney, interactive games hosted by Powerade, players from the Chicago Fire team, and plenty of fellow fans. Arrive early to get a good spot!

World Cup Final Festival at SOLDIER FIELD – July 11th

Watch the most important game in soccer with thousands of fans in Soldier Field! The final game will be broadcast on the huge stadium video boards, giving a unique experience. There will also be a South African interactive village that will have cultural and soccer activities. Live music and performance will be shown all day, featuring Graffiti Dancers and African Percussion. The Ethnicity Soccer tournament Finals will also be hosted in the morning , which is the first World Cup amateur soccer tournament in the country! Tickets are $20 ahead of time, and $30 at the door.

Visit www.africachicago.com for more information about all events.

Photos courtesy of serk1, Chidn