Since learning about their country’s participation in the World Cup in Boston, Scotland fans have been gearing up for a massive celebration. Jason Waddleton, originally from Scotland and owner of The Haven, a well-known Scottish bar and restaurant in Boston’s Jamaica Plain, anticipated the arrival of numerous Scottish supporters. His expectations were accurate.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey approved extended bar and restaurant hours during the World Cup. An estimated 50,000 Scots have arrived in the Boston area, including nearby Providence, R.I., which has become a temporary home for many visitors.
Following Scotland’s win over Haiti in their opening match, the Tartan Army marched through Boston, joining festivities at Fenway Park for the Scottish Heritage Celebration Night. The demand for beer has been extraordinary in Boston, a city already known for big drinking festivities like St. Patrick’s Day and Independence Day.
The Haven has significantly increased its orders of Scotland’s popular Tennent’s Lager, from four kegs a week to 50 during this period. Other establishments have similarly increased their orders to avoid running out. Sam Adams reported shortages of its Samuel Adams Boston Lager due to increased consumption by visiting fans. Plans are in place to replenish supplies swiftly.
The party atmosphere escalated on Friday as Scotland prepared for their next World Cup match near Boston. “They know how to party, how to make friends and influence people,” said Waddleton about the visitors.
Scottish fans gathered in central Boston ahead of a match against Haiti and Scotland in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Saturday, June 13, 2026. (Martin Meissner/AP)
Tennent’s Lager has been in high demand, previously available only at The Haven. Prior to the World Cup, the company expanded its distribution to 80 bars in Boston and surrounding areas. International marketing manager Samantha Crawford stated preparations to supply the U.S. began as soon as Scotland secured their spot in the tournament. Supply lines extend to Miami for Scotland’s upcoming match against Brazil.
Business owners responded to the influx of patrons. Mivan Spencer, owner of Caffe Dello Sport in Boston’s North End, was surprised by the increase in business. After running out of key products, Spencer borrowed supplies from other restaurants. Alex Freeman’s 21-year-old son, former NFL player Antonio Freeman, gained attention for scoring in the U.S.’s World Cup victory.
High Street Place, a Boston food hall, reported consumption levels that exceeded expectations. Lauren Johnson indicated seamless adjustments in orders to meet demand.
Devon Sage of Sam Adams noted record consumption of Boston Lager, requiring several emergency deliveries to the taproom. Politicians embraced the soccer fervor, with Boston Mayor Michelle Wu attending fan events and Gov. Healey declaring June 18 as World Cup Fans Appreciation Day while serving drinks at The Haven.