Berkshire cities pass on extended World Cup last call but local watch parties continue

Berkshire cities pass on extended World Cup last call but local watch parties continue
Berkshire Eagle
By By Izzy Bryars, The Berkshire Eagle
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PITTSFIELD — North Adams and Pittsfield haven't extended last call by one hour during the FIFA World Cup, despite a state law allowing communities to do so.

Officials in those cities declined to adopt the state's temporary program allowing communities to extend last call from 2 a.m. to 3 a.m., citing a lack of demand from businesses.

At a June 30 North Adams Licensing Board meeting, Chair Rosemari Dickinson said no residents or bars asked to take advantage of extended last call, while member Peter Breen noted that the tournament itself is already halfway over.

“We're not for or against it, there is just no reason” to adopt the extended service hour, Dickinson told The Eagle.

Similarly, Pittsfield Assistant City Clerk Heather Brazeau said no one reached out with interest in staying open until 3 a.m. The measure also allowed cities and towns to permit outdoor alcohol consumption in designated areas.

“It would work more in places like Boston, for sure, where they can close off streets," she said.

But countywide, the festivities are still on, albeit during regular business hours. The U.S. Men's National Team faces Belgium in the Round of 16 at 8 p.m. ET Monday after advancing with a win over Bosnia and Herzegovina last week.

Here is where to watch the matches and join in upcoming local cup festivities:

Pittsfield

Hot Plate Brewing Company is showing games every day this week. Partnering with Espetinho Carioca, Downtown Pittsfield Inc., Cultural Pittsfield and the local soccer club Pittsfield Green, Hot Plate will also host two more World Cup block parties this summer: a quarterfinals watch party on Saturday, and a World Cup final watch party on Sunday, July 19.

The events will take place on School Street with large-screen viewing of each match and indoor viewing in the taproom.

The Eagle also confirmed that the Sideline Saloon, Patrick's Pub and Cim's Tavern are showing Monday night's match while they are open.

North County

The Eagle confirmed that these bars and restaurants will be showing the game tonight, while they are open.

South County

The Common Pub in Housatonic is open for every match leading up to the final on July 19. Monday's plans were to open at 2:45 p.m. for bar-only service, with the kitchen open from 4-9 p.m.

The pub will remain open until fans depart from watching the match.

The Locker Room in Lee also said it was hosting a watch party and planned to remain open for the entirety of the U.S.-Belgium match.

The Eagle also confirmed The Miller in Great Barrington and Antimony Brewing in Lenox would show the match while they are open.

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