Austin’s energy explodes during March Madness, the single-elimination NCAA basketball tournament. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer navigating the city, here’s how to experience the exhilarating atmosphere:

Hosting the Madness

Optimize Your Space: Transform your home into a basketball haven. Decorate with team colors and set up a comfortable viewing area. Utilize furniture strategically for optimal seating and consider a projector for a larger-than-life experience.

Fuel the Excitement: Prepare delicious snacks and beverages. Consider offering classic concession stand fare like popcorn, nachos, and wings, or explore catering options for a hassle-free feast. Share your March Madness experiences on social media using relevant hashtags and local business tags.

Engage Your Guests: Incorporate interactive elements. Create a “bracket pool” where guests predict winners and award prizes. Organize mini games during commercial breaks like trivia or a free-throw challenge.

Partying Like a Champion

Embrace the Buzz: Wear your team’s jersey or colors and arrive early to secure a good spot. Mingle with fellow fans, discuss the games, and enjoy the camaraderie.

Local Events: Many restaurants and bars host viewing parties with special promotions, ensuring a lively atmosphere. Here are some restaurants, bars, and event centers hosting March Madness events for families and fans of all ages throughout Austin for the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments:

• Moody Center
  This new multi-purpose arena on the University of Texas campus will be hosting the first and second rounds of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship. While tickets may be required, the atmosphere will be electric for fans of all ages.
• Pluckers Wing Bar
  Offers a fun and casual atmosphere with plenty of TVs to catch the games. They have a large menu with kid-friendly options like wings, burgers, and pizzas.
• The Original Pinballz Arcade
  This family entertainment center combines the excitement of March Madness with arcade games, bowling, and laser tag. They have a full menu with something for everyone.
• Dave & Buster’s
  Another family entertainment option with a large selection of video games, a sports bar, and a restaurant. They offer special packages for groups watching sporting events.
• Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
  This movie theater chain also has a restaurant with a full menu and a large bar area. They often show sporting events, including March Madness, and have special promotions for families.
• Little Woodrow’s
  A popular Austin bar chain with multiple locations across the city. They’re known for their extensive beer selection and lively atmosphere during sporting events.
• The Tavern
  This downtown bar offers a large patio and multiple TVs for watching games. They have a good selection of food and drinks, making it a popular spot for catching March Madness.
• The Highball
  This rooftop bar boasts stunning views of the city and a fun atmosphere for watching games. They have a limited food menu but a large selection of cocktails and beers.
• Stubbs Waller BBQ
  This iconic Austin establishment offers delicious Texas-style BBQ and live music. They often have TVs showing sporting events, including March Madness.

Beyond the Game

Network with Fellow Fans: Strike up conversations with people who share your passion for basketball. This can lead to new friendships and potential business connections within the Austin community.

Embrace the Austin Spirit: Immerse yourself in the city’s contagious energy. March Madness provides a unique opportunity to connect with the vibrant Austin community and experience the city’s dynamic spirit.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: NCAA Women’s Basketball details here.  //
NCAA Men’s Basketball details here.