ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – NFL watch parties are bringing fans together at local sports bars and giving businesses a needed boost during football season.
On Sundays, team colors can vary from black and gold to orange and white, but fans at local sports bars said they are finding community while they watch games.
“We meet so many people. We meet a lot of people from Pittsburgh, just people to get together and come have a good time, you know?” Jake Mendez said.
Football also gave one fan a reason to celebrate more than the game.
“Yeah, it’s my 30th birthday and my wife had a surprise party, so she planned it and I showed up when all my friends were here.” Chris Murtagh said.
Fans buying food and drinks means more money for local businesses, and workers at sports bars said NFL season helps at a key time of year.
“Oh, absolutely. We really thrive on NFL season. We prey on it, honestly…” Nohelani Ader said. “So during the summer, it’s hard.”
Ader said some college watch parties alone can bring in 30 to 50 people.
“People don’t understand that. Like, ‘Why aren’t you showing this game?’ I’m like, it costs a lot of money to run commercial license because they have to charge per screen and how big the area is.” Ader said.
Ader is not the only local business worker talking about that cost. The Lobo Theatre is showing sports for the first time, opening six days a week and adding sports subscriptions to bring more people into Nob Hill.
“Yeah, I mean, we have the full package, so we invested in that,” Richard Rivas said. “We hope people invest back into us trying to do the right thing for the neighborhood.”
Fans said supporting those businesses can be as simple as going out for a game, ordering food and drinks and spending time with friends.
“Maybe we can’t afford to do it every week, but you know, every now and then go out and hang out and support local, grab some food and drinks and just have a good time.” Murtagh said.