World Cup Fever Storms Waukesha

The Waukesha Business Improvement District announces the House of Guinness, 354 W. Main St., will be televising the 2010 FIFA World Cup from South Africa beginning June 11 for the run of the Cup ending July 11, 2010. Games will be featured during their actual air time, 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. In conjunction with the early opening, the House of Guinness will feature a Bloody Mary Breakfast Bar, chances to win World Cup team jerseys, and an on-going opportunity to win a trip to Ireland for patrons. The airing of the World Cup games at the House of Guinness is unique because there are typically no televisions in this Irish pub.

“We made the decision years ago to not have TV’s plastering the walls so people could enjoy a night without the distraction,” said co-owner Jennifer Andrews who owns the pub with her husband Curtis Andrews.

Pub manager, Scott Andrews, has said that the appearance of a television has concerned some patrons. “Many people were actually disappointed to see the TV as they come here to escape it,” stated Scott. “We are quick to comfort them and let them know that the only time the TV will be on will be for World Cup games, which should end around 3:00 p.m.” The pub will operate as normal beginning at 3:00 p.m. minus television viewing.

“This is another great example of a downtown business adapting to meet the needs of their customers,” said Waukesha Business Improvement District Executive Director Karen Richards. “It’s exciting that the House of Guinness will open their doors early to reach an even wider audience of soccer fans while at the same time honoring their tradition of a TV-free zone for regular patrons.”

House of Guinness will televise all 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. games throughout the World Cup, every day of the week. The pub will open at 8:30 a.m. each day during the tournament, including Sundays from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

“We are excited to be one of the few pubs in southeast Wisconsin which will be offering a place to enjoy the games daily!” During the games, the House of Guinness will offer a Bloody Mary ‘Breakfast’ bar featuring a variety of garnishes and spices for every preference. Chances to win World Cup team jerseys and an ongoing event where patrons can earn a chance to win a trip to Ireland will also be offered.

Rich in history and packed with contemporary flavor, Historic Downtown Waukesha & Riverwalk is easy to find with two way streets and ample parking that make it a friendly option. From I-94 exit at Hwy F south to Barstow, turn left to enter the Downtown Business District. From I-43, exit at Hwy 164 north; continue north to Wisconsin Avenue, turn left and the Downtown Business District is on the left. A variety of parking options are available including on-street parking, a variety of public parking lots and two parking structures.

For more information, log onto www.DowntownWaukesha.com.