It is Euro-Cup season, which means that Germans can be seen sporting soccer jersey shirts, Hawaiian leis in “schwarz-rot-gold” (black, red and gold, the colors of the national flag) and wondering aloud “who is Kimmich?” (a promising 21-year-old newcomer to the national team). Soccer fans are eager to share their enthusiasm with others, and Germans enjoy watching the sport in large groups. So-called “public viewing” has become a major part of German soccer culture since the phenomenon spread throughout the country when it hosted the 2006 World Cup. This year, it is estimated that over 100 bars and restaurants in the Bonn area will be showing the matches live. On Sunday, Germany will play Slovakia at 6 p.m.

Public viewing can take place anywhere from a park to a terrace at a restaurant or even in a small kiosk down the road. As long as there is a television screen and the location where the match is being viewed is a public place, it can be considered public viewing. There are many different kinds of public viewing to suit your needs - if the big party in a public park such as the Kunst!Garten isn’t your thing, you are guaranteed to find a local pub showing all the matches. Be sure to come in appropriate attire (if you can’t get your hands on a soccer jersey, face-paint of a small German flag on your cheeks will do) and get ready to drink some beer with your fellow soccer fans. Everyone is welcome!