Key facts
- An estimated 50,000 Scottish World Cup fans are in Boston.
- Hotels and bars are reporting increased business and some inventory shortages.
- Sales at some establishments have tripled compared to St. Patrick's Day.
- The World Cup festivities have led to extended bar hours and public drinking zones.
- Hotel revenue per available room increased significantly during the initial days of the tournament.
- Short-term rental searches have surged, with Scottish travelers being top international visitors.
Thousands of Scottish World Cup fans have descended upon Boston, creating an economic boon for local businesses. Venues across the city, from rooftop bars to historic pubs, are experiencing a surge in patronage, with some reporting unprecedented sales figures.
The influx of approximately 50,000 Scottish supporters, easily identifiable in their kilts, has filled hotels, bars, restaurants, and even tourist attractions. Trish Berry, general manager of the Yotel hotel, noted that demand for rooms has exceeded expectations, with the hotel's Deck 12 bar frequently running out of beer due to the crowds. Similarly, Hennessy’s Bar reported tripling its St. Patrick's Day sales, and Sam Adams experienced a shortage of its Boston Lager.
Michael Nichols, president of the Downtown Boston Alliance, described the impact as an "avalanche of good," highlighting that the fans are supporting not only hospitality businesses but also historic sites, theaters, and retail establishments. This boost is particularly crucial for the downtown area as it recovers from the pandemic and seeks to maintain vibrancy.
To capitalize on the event, Massachusetts passed legislation extending last call to 3 a.m. and establishing public drinking zones from June 8 to July 31, a pilot program that city leaders hope could become permanent.
While initial hotel occupancy rates were slightly below last year's figures for the same period, hotels were able to increase average rates and revenue per available room. Short-term rental platforms like Airbnb have also seen a significant rise in bookings, with Boston ranking high among host cities for new hosts and Scottish travelers being top international visitors.