PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — This weekend’s return of soccer to Providence Park is great news, not only for fans of the Timbers and Thorns, but also for a lot of businesses near the park.
Bars and restaurants around Providence Park are open all the time, but they said game day is something special.
Gary Jondahl started the Kingston Sports Bar nearly 40 years ago. It’s a block from Providence Park at Southwest 20th and Morrison. It’s arguably the place to go before all soccer home games — with a special menu before and after games catering to the fans.
Bar owner Gary told KOIN 6 News that they’re excited for the return of home game days.
“We’ve missed it a lot, you know. It’s like three months into the season and we haven’t had a home game yet, but we’re looking forward to Saturday,” he said.
Since the regular season started, the Timbers have played 12 straight games on the road due to construction at Providence Park. The multi-million dollar renovation has added new amenities to the park and 4,000 seats.
But this weekend, Portland’s soccer teams return home. The Timbers play on Saturday and the Thorns on Sunday
“It’s a lot of fun,” Gary said.
Saturday’s game is just the start for soccer fans. Out of the Timbers final 22 games, 17 of them will be played at Providence Park — keeping businesses busy and fans happy.
