Scotland’s World Cup Fans Create a Beer Buzz in Boston
Scotland is back in the FIFA World Cup, and it’s not just about football; it’s also causing a bit of a beer shortage in Boston. The Tartan Army, as Scotland’s fans are known, have flooded the city for their country’s first World Cup appearance since 1998. Their team’s recent 1-0 win against Haiti triggered celebrations that left many local bars scrambling for supplies.
Local pubs experienced a rush they hadn’t prepared for, with some needing emergency beer deliveries just to keep up. One bar even considered switching to canned drinks to manage the overwhelming demand.
Tartan Army Surprises Local Bars
Billy DeCain, the general manager at the Sam Adams Tap Room, shared his surprise at the situation. “I’ve been in this business for over 30 years, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” he said while getting ready for Scotland’s next match against Morocco.
The demand took even seasoned bar owners off guard. According to the Boston Beer Company, Scotland fans consumed four times the usual amount of Boston Lager that bars would expect to sell over a busy holiday weekend, like Independence Day.
With over 4,000 pints sold within just four days, bars quickly ran low, emptying nearly 90 kegs. “If we hadn’t arranged those emergency deliveries, we would have really struggled,” DeCain added.
A Warm Reception for the Tartan Army
Despite the beer challenges, the Tartan Army has charmed many in Boston. Mayor Michelle Wu commended the fans for their passion and the positive impact they’ve had on local businesses. “To see that same level of commitment and dedication brings true respect,” she said. “The Scottish fans are the absolute best. They’ve treated Boston like a second home.”
The festivities have gone beyond just pubs, with Scotland supporters organizing a lively fan parade through the city, complete with bagpipe music, before heading to Fenway Park for a special Scotland-themed gathering.
For many Boston locals, this has been a vibrant welcome to a passionate fan base that has eagerly awaited its World Cup journey for almost three decades.
