Indianapolis bars brace for crowds of Hoosiers ahead of Monday’s IU game

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Bars across Indianapolis are getting ready for a busy Monday night as Hoosier fans plan to head out for IU watch parties. Local bars say they are staffing up and ready to roll out the specials for IU fans.

“This is history for Indiana and IU,” IU fan, Jody Kofer said. “We are so excited to do this as one, as a community.”

The Tap, a bar located off of Delaware Street says they are ready to welcome in the Hoosier crowd. The manager, Sarah Gorman, says they are expecting to have one of their busiest days of the year on Monday.

“The past couple of games have just been absolutely crazy,” Gorman said. “I think this Monday is probably going to top it all.”

Kyle Miller, a server at The Tap, has been working there for about two years. He says big game days are always his favorite to work.

“It’s hard to walk in here, every table is full, everyone is cheering, and it’s just fun and gets crazy,” Miller said. “As much as you are not on the field or in the bleachers, you’re there, you are.”

Another local bar, Tie-Breakers, has only been open for about two months. The bar is located on Mass Ave. The owner, Wayne Raber, says they are expecting standing room only for the game.

“We are getting all the staff ready for a big day and an IU win,” Raber said. “We pretty much feel like this is an IU bar. The last games were packed, so we are looking forward to the excitement again.”

A server at Tie-Breakers, Jayce Nielsen, says working during recent IU games has felt like a maze trying to weave through the crowds while carrying hot plates of food.

“Coming out with three or four plates, you just got to try and get through a bunch of people, but it’s fun,” Nielsen said. “When the Hoosiers score, it is like an earthquake in here.”

Both The Tap and Tie-Breakers are bringing special deals for the crowds on Monday, but those aren’t the only bars rolling out deals for the game. Below you can find a list of Indianapolis bars that are hosting “watch parties,” where you can enjoy some good food, drinks, and a great seat for the big game.

Indianapolis Area Options

Tie-Breakers – 339 Massachusetts Ave

The Tap – 306 N Delaware St

The Hangar – $40 ticketed event at 501 Madison Ave. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Tom’s Watch Bar – 140 S. Illinois St.

Ralston’s Drafthouse – 635 Massachusetts Ave.

Liter House: Free ticketed event with capped attendance at 5301 Winthrop Ave. from 6-10 p.m.