Thousands of Scotland supporters have left a lasting impression on Boston during the World Cup, earning praise from local residents and businesses alike, the BBC reported.
Approximately 50,000 members of the Tartan Army, who are fans of the Scotland national football team, visited the city to watch Scotland’s group-stage matches, filling bars, restaurants and public spaces with singing, dancing and celebrations.
Many local businesses reported a significant increase in customers. Devon Savage of Boston Beer said Scottish fans had effectively «drunk them dry.» She noted that fans consumed four times more Boston Lager over one four-day period than during a typical holiday weekend, forcing the company to arrange an «emergency delivery» after selling more than 3,000 pints.
Other pubs also reported record sales, with some saying crowds surpassed those at major events such as the Super Bowl and St. Patrick’s Day.
The visitors’ impact extended beyond local businesses. Videos of Scotland fans singing at Fenway Park, playing bagpipes around the city and gathering in public spaces attracted widespread attention online.
At a community event in Boston Common, Scots and Americans came together to exchange local drinks and join in chants of «No Scotland, No Party.»
Many residents said the fans brought a positive atmosphere to the city. Steve Castiglione, a Boston resident, said he had «completely fallen in love with Scottish people,» adding that they had brought «so much joy» to the city.
Some residents linked the warm reception to the energy of the visiting fans and the historic cultural connections between Scotland and New England. Others expressed interest in visiting Scotland themselves following the tournament.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said the city felt fortunate to host Scotland’s matches and expressed hope that Scottish supporters would continue to see Boston as a home away from home in future tournaments.
In addition, Wu signed a letter of intent paving the way for Boston and Glasgow to become sister cities. The ceremony took place at The Haven, Boston’s only dedicated Scottish bar, which served as the Tartan Army’s unofficial headquarters throughout the tournament.
