What to Expect on the City Streets Today With the European Championship?
Anticipation Builds for Dutch Quarter-Final Match Against Turkey.
Groningen and other Dutch cities are gearing up for an exciting evening as the Dutch national team faces Turkey in the quarter-finals of the European Championship today. The match is expected to draw large crowds to local cafes and public viewing areas, promising an electric atmosphere and a significant impact on local businesses.
Full Cafes and Extra Turnover Expected
Local cafes, particularly those catering to the European Championship matches, are bracing for a busy night. The importance of the match, coupled with the favourable 9 PM Saturday time slot, is expected to fill cafes to capacity. De Drie Gezusters expects a full house with around 2,800 patrons, turning the first floor into an 'Oranje shack' complete with beer tables and music.
In response to the high demand for communal viewing, the municipality of Groningen has relaxed certain regulations. Previously, screens were restricted to 55 inches and had to be placed indoors. Now, screens up to 78 inches are permitted outdoors as long as crowding is avoided. Additionally, groups of up to 200 people can now gather to watch the match without needing to apply for a permit three weeks in advance.
Viewing Options in the City Centre
Fans looking to watch the game on big screens have several options. The Oosterpoort will host a viewing event with a large screen, though tickets are required and can be purchased here (if they are not all sold out already). De Drie Gezusters on the Grote Markt invites fans to wear their best orange outfits and join the festivities. Café De Doos on Gelkingestraat will open its doors at 7 PM, featuring live music from Chris de Roo before the match and during halftime.
Some other locations to try if your preferred one is over capacity:
- Happy Traveler: This hostel offers a cool roof terrace with a great view over the city, perfect for watching the match.
- Block & Barrels: Known for its social atmosphere and delicious meat dishes, this spot is ideal for enjoying the game with friends.
- Café De Toeter: A long-standing favourite in Groningen, located right on the water in the city centre.
- Kinepolis: Experience the match on a grand scale at this cinema, which will be broadcasting the game on a big screen.
- Bar Players: Renowned as the football pub of Groningen, located on Poelestraat.
- Hourglass: A great place to have a drink with both indoor and outdoor seating, often broadcasting Dutch games on a big screen.
- Stadslab: Previously transformed into the biggest living room in the country for the European Championship, this spot may organise something for the match at the last minute.