For those non-sports fans out there, you may have seen a sudden and random increase in European-country flags hanging from balcony windows or plastered across the hoods of cars in traffic. However, this surge of European-heritage pride isn’t random at all. So, what is it? It’s the start of the 2021 EuroCup. This quadrennial soccer tournament is a very important time for a lot of proud soccer fans who love to watch their favourite sport and celebrate their heritage. That said, it’s also a very important time for those non-sports fans who want to get in on the fun and celebrate too.
So, for proud fans and non-sports fans alike, here are some ways to celebrate the EuroCup around The 6ix
Patio Viewing
Although chilling at a patio is probably already on your summer-fun bucket list, you can easily multitask by celebrating the EuroCup at the same time. There are plenty of patios across the city that will definitely be playing the matches throughout this tournament. So, to help you get started, here’s a list of 8 patios that are prime territory for watching the games.
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Watch in a Euro-village
There’s absolutely no better way to celebrate the EuroCup than by watching the matches in the euro-villages of Toronto. These areas of The 6ix are flaring with pride for their country, and the authentic experience of watching a game on a patio or attending a viewing party in these districts is unrivalled.
Little Portugal
Located along Dundas Street West between Lansdowne Avenue and Ossington Avenue, Little Portugal is home to many passionate fans and even more authentic bakeries to watch the games while snacking on some delicious Portuguese treats.
Little Italy
It comes to no surprise that Little Italy is on this list. Located just North-East of Little Portugal, this Italian enclave is the perfect spot to celebrate the tournament while spending the day eating the flavourful foods of the area and soaking in the culture.
Bonus
It’s also worth taking a look at Bloor West Village for some Eastern European/Ukrainine culture to celebrate, as well as the many British Pubs across the city.
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Themed Viewing Party at Home
If you’re the stay-at-home type, here are some themed viewing party options for you:
- Play a soccer-based drinking game with your friends (responsibly, of course).
- Prepare (or order) a lunch or dinner that features some signature dishes from the competing countries.
- Decorate and colour coordinate your place with the colours of the nations that you’re watching and supporting.
Soccer at the Beach or a Park
Rather than just watching the games throughout the tournament, why not play some soccer as well. There’s no better way to get into the EuroCup mindset than to actually get outside and kick a soccer ball around one of Toronto’s many beaches or parks. Chances are that you’ll meet some fellow enthusiasts too, so you can share what you’re all doing to celebrate this wonderful time.
Participate in a Parade (Safely, of Course)
At the end of the EuroCup tournament, keep an eye out for safely planned victory parades. Chances are that somewhere throughout the city there’s going to be a very proud and loud group of people parading their heritage throughout the streets in celebration of their nation’s victory.
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With all that said, it’s no lie that Toronto is a cultural mosaic of different people that come from many different places. So, let’s try to support and celebrate our diverse backgrounds respectfully. Even when the games get pretty heated both on and off the pitch, remember to have fun and celebrate responsibly.
