Going global: NFL hosting kickoff parties in seven cities

The NFL is kicking off the season with fans around the globe by hosting watch parties in seven international cities.
The free “NFL Experience” events are taking place from Sept. 4-7 in Manchester, U.K.; Berlin, Germany; Madrid, Spain; Mexico City, Mexico; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Toronto, Canada; and Brisbane, Australia.
“Our international fan base is one of the fastest-growing communities in sports, and NFL Experience is our way to celebrate that passion and bring the excitement of NFL Kickoff directly to fans around the globe,” said Peter O’Reilly, NFL executive vice president for club business, international and league events.
“Through the success of the International Games and the passion we see from fans in markets around the world, it’s clear that the appetite for football has never been stronger. We’re building on that energy by creating more ways for fans to experience the game, helping make it a year-round, global NFL experience.”
The watch parties feature live game screenings with gameday food, local entertainment and giveaways. Fans can also compete in tailgate games and NFL Combine-style challenges and pose for photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
There will also be appearances by NFL legends, mascots and cheerleaders. The league claims to have more than 183 million fans worldwide.