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Face paint, flags, scarves and fiercely loyal followers. This could easily describe any American football fan. In Germany, European football (also known as soccer) is the premier sport to watch. The UEFA European Championship, or Euro 2016, began last week in France. This competition is held every four years, similar to the FIFA World Cup. For the first time, the competition has expanded from 16 qualifying national teams to 24. Ten different venues throughout France play host to the matches. All teams compete in the group stage, which consists of three games for each team. Teams then move into the knockouts rounds—the round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final, which will be held on July 10 at the Stade de France in Paris.
After winning the World Cup in 2014, Germany is one of the early favorites to win Euro 2016. If you want to take in a match, but can’t quite make it to France, or you’re not quite sure you want to spend an evening with 80,000 of your newest friends, check out some local viewing parties in the KMC area. Many of these viewings and specials will take place throughout the month. If you do partake, please be smart. Have a designated driver, use public transportation, grab a taxi or call AADD (0631 536-2233) as a last resort.
Blarney Stone Irish Pub, Am Alten Markt 13, LandstuhlEnjoy a pint and delicious Irish specialties, such as fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. During Euro 2016, there will be drink specials going on throughout the matches. They will be showing the live matches at 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Haus des Bürgers, Am Neuen Markt 4, RamsteinA large venue, Haus des Bürgers in Ramstein makes an optimal public viewing party location. Enter for a chance to win an Adidas jersey of one of the German team members! Admission is free and doors will open one hour before the match begins.
Other viewing locations in the KMC area:
Café RoyalSteinstraße 27, Kaiserslautern0631 10168
The Snug Irish PubSteinstraße 19, Kaiserslautern0631 7500 5060
Maloney’s Irish PubSteinstraße 29, Kaiserslautern0631 3039 8294
The Red LionLilienstraße 7, Landstuhl06371 611 1582
The next match for Germany is versus Poland, Thursday, June 16, starting at 9:00 p.m. For more information and a complete schedule, visit the official UEFA page.
