Will Bars Have The Chiefs Game This Weekend

Will Bars Have the Chiefs Game?

Okay, so you’re a huge Kansas City Chiefs fan and game day is almost here. You’re thinking about where to watch the game, and the idea of cheering with a crowd, surrounded by fellow fans, sounds amazing. You’re probably wondering, “Will bars even have the Chiefs game?” Well, let’s dive into that question and explore everything that goes into whether your local bar will be showing the Chiefs dominate the field.

The Basics: TV Rights and Sports Packages

First things first, bars don’t just magically get to show any game they want. It all comes down to television rights and sports packages. Big networks like ESPN, CBS, FOX, and NBC, along with streaming services like Amazon Prime, pay a lot of money to show these games. Bars, just like homes, need to have the right subscriptions to access these channels. There are special commercial subscriptions, which cost more than what you pay at home, that allow bars to legally show games to their customers. These subscriptions often come as a bundle, meaning bars get access to a variety of sports, not just the NFL. So, whether a bar has the Chiefs game will often depend on the specific sports package they subscribe to. Some bars may choose a basic package while others might get one with every sports channel imaginable.

What Channels Usually Carry Chiefs Games?

The channels that typically carry Chiefs games vary based on the season’s schedule. Here’s a breakdown of where you’ll likely find the Chiefs playing:

• CBS: Often broadcasts many AFC games, including Chiefs matchups.
• FOX: Also a frequent home for NFL games, featuring some Chiefs games.
• NBC: Usually has the Sunday Night Football game, which could include the Chiefs.
• ESPN: Carries Monday Night Football and some other games during the season, and sometimes includes the Chiefs.
• NFL Network: Shows select games throughout the season.
• Amazon Prime Video: Has acquired exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football, which could include Chiefs games.

Knowing which channel the game is on can give you a clue as to which bars are likely to have it. A sports bar with many TVs is more likely to have the required channels, compared to a small neighborhood bar.

The Bar’s Decision: Factors They Consider

Even if a bar has the right sports package, showing the Chiefs game isn’t always a given. Several factors play into their decision:

Popularity and Demand

Bars are businesses, and they need to cater to their customer base. If the Chiefs are a popular team in that area, they’re more likely to show the game. If most of their customers are fans of another team, they might prioritize that game instead. The day and time of the game also plays a big role. A Sunday afternoon game is more likely to be shown than a game on a Tuesday night, especially if the crowd tends to be lighter mid-week.

Number of Televisions

A sports bar with lots of TVs can show multiple games at the same time. This increases the chances that a bar with many TVs would be showing the Chiefs game. A bar with fewer TVs might need to pick and choose which games they show, especially if multiple games happen at the same time. It’s common to see bigger sports bars showing several different games simultaneously, creating a lively and exciting atmosphere.

Other Sporting Events

Sometimes, your local bar may be showing other major sporting events. If there is a huge boxing match, a very important college basketball game, or a soccer game that has local fan base, that can take precedence at the TVs. Therefore even though the bar have right sports packages, it might not show the chiefs game. Also the time of other games and timing of the chiefs game is a big factor.

The Bar’s Atmosphere and Clientele

The type of bar can also affect the game selection. A sports bar is far more likely to show the game than a quiet pub or a family restaurant. The general vibe of the bar plays a key role. Sports bars are built for viewing games. They want to bring in fans, and the Chiefs games are likely to bring in large groups of people.

Finding a Bar That Will Show the Chiefs Game

So, how can you actually make sure the bar you choose will be showing the Chiefs game? Here are some strategies:

Call Ahead

The easiest way to find out is to call the bar directly. Ask them if they plan to show the Chiefs game. This is the most reliable method. You can also ask what time they will start showing the game and if they have any game day specials. Calling ahead can save you from driving across town, only to find that your chosen bar is not showing the game. Calling in advance will also allow you to book table for yourself or with your friends.

Check Social Media

Many bars post their game day schedules on their social media accounts. Check their Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages for the most up-to-date information. This is a great way to check multiple places at once. Sometimes they will even post special deals for the game which is an added bonus.

Use Sports Bar Finder Apps and Websites

There are several apps and websites that help you find bars that are showing specific games. These platforms often let you search by sport, team, and location. You can enter “Kansas City Chiefs” and your location to see which bars nearby are likely to show the game. This makes it easier to locate a perfect spot to watch the game.

Look for Local Fan Groups

Local Chiefs fan groups often have watch parties at specific bars. These groups usually have partnerships with local establishments that show the games. Checking with a local fan group on social media might help you discover a popular viewing spot with other fans. Such a location will be exciting and fun to watch the game.

Visit the Bar in Person

Sometimes, a quick visit to the bar a day or two before the game can be helpful. You can ask the bartenders or managers about the upcoming game schedule and get a first hand look at their TVs. This gives you a chance to scope out the best place to watch.

Game Day Tips for a Great Experience

Okay, you’ve found a bar that’s showing the Chiefs game. Now, let’s make sure you have the best time possible.

Arrive Early

Popular sports bars get crowded quickly, especially for big games like the Chiefs. Arriving early will secure you a good seat and let you claim your spot. Arriving early will also save you from the anxiety of not getting a seat. And most often, if you arrive early, you can grab a table, making it easy to enjoy food and drinks with your friends.

Know the Bar’s Policies

Some bars have minimum spending requirements for big games, or special game day pricing. Find out about any special policies to avoid surprise charges. Knowing this in advance will make you feel comfortable when the bill comes. This is also important for budget purposes, if you are planning on keeping the expenses under control.

Be Respectful of Others

Cheering for your team is great, but make sure you’re being respectful of other patrons. Remember, people might be supporting the other team. Also remember to be kind to the waitstaff. This is a team sport from every angle, and should be treated as such.

Try the Food and Drinks

Many sports bars have great game day specials on food and drinks. This is your chance to try some new dishes and celebrate the game with your friends. And do not forget to stay hydrated, especially in between alcoholic drinks.

Enjoy the Atmosphere

The energy of watching a game at a bar with other fans is part of the experience. Let loose, cheer, and soak in the game day fun. You are there to enjoy the experience with other fans, so feel the vibe and have a great time.

What to do if no bar is showing the Chiefs game

It can be disappointing if you can’t find a bar showing the Chiefs game, but there are alternatives. You could invite some friends over to watch at your place. You can also check if a local restaurant that has TV, might play the game if asked kindly. There may be a local sports bar that you have not considered in which case you can try checking with them also. With many options available, missing a game can become a thing of past.

So, will bars have the Chiefs game? The answer is usually yes, especially if the Chiefs are playing a popular game, but it’s always smart to do your homework. By using the tips above, you will be well prepared to cheer on the Chiefs from your favorite spot, surrounded by fellow fans. Whether you call, check social media, or try another strategy, you’re now equipped to make sure that you never miss a minute of Chiefs action.