The Ultimate Ohio State Football Watch Party in Columbus

Scarlet. Gray. Game Day. In Columbus, Ohio, game day isn’t just a date on the…

August 14, 2025

Scarlet. Gray. Game Day.

In Columbus, Ohio, game day isn’t just a date on the calendar — it’s a city-wide ritual. The streets buzz with anticipation, neighbors greet each other in Buckeye gear, and every bar and restaurant prepares for a flood of fans ready to cheer their team to victory. Whether you’re a lifelong season ticket holder or someone who just loves the electricity of college football, the energy here is unmatched.

But if you can’t make it to the Shoe, there’s one place where that same heart-pounding excitement comes alive: The Little Grand Market.

Part food hall, part community gathering space, The Little Grand Market offers a game-day experience you simply won’t find anywhere else in Columbus. It’s where big screens meet bigger cheers, where a diverse food lineup keeps fans well-fed, and where every touchdown feels like a homecoming.

Big Screens, Bigger Energy

When the Buckeyes take the field, you want a view that keeps you in the action from kickoff to the final whistle. At The Little Grand Market, multiple large-format viewing screens ensure that every seat is a good seat. The setup isn’t just about size — it’s about placement, so you can enjoy the game without craning your neck or missing a play.

The crowd atmosphere is something special. Fans from all walks of life come together in Scarlet and Gray, ready to erupt in celebration at every first down. You’ll hear the familiar roar of “O-H!” answered by “I-O!” from across the room, just like in the stadium.

And unlike some sports bars where the sound is drowned out by background noise, here the audio is crystal clear, giving you that immersive, almost-on-the-field feeling.

Game Day Food & Drink Specials Worth Cheering For

Every fan knows that football and food are inseparable. At The Little Grand Market, you don’t have to settle for the same old bar menu — you have an entire lineup of local vendors ready to serve.

Hungry for tacos? Grab a plate from Los Agaves. Craving something sweet? For the Love of Dough has you covered with cookies that make the perfect halftime treat. Want something hearty? Sink your teeth into sliders, pizza, or a steaming bowl of ramen from one of our rotating kitchens.

Pair your plate with game-day drink specials — think ice-cold beer buckets, themed cocktails, and seasonal sippers. Rivalry games sometimes inspire exclusive creations, like a scarlet-hued margarita or a Buckeye Espresso Martini that doubles as a dessert.

Pro Tip: Arrive a little early and hit the bar for pre-game happy hour specials before the crowd fills in.

Walkable, Accessible, and All Ages Welcome

One of the best things about The Little Grand Market is how easy it is to get here. Located within walking distance of Grandview, Downtown Columbus, and OSU’s campus, it’s an ideal meet-up spot for friends coming from different parts of the city.

If you’re driving, nearby parking options make it convenient to stop in for the whole game or just the second half. Public transit stops are close by, and there’s plenty of bike parking for those who want to pedal to the party.

Families are welcome too. Our open layout and variety of food options make it easy to enjoy the game with kids in tow — plus, the lively atmosphere keeps everyone entertained.

Fan Traditions at The Little Grand Market

Every watch party develops its own personality, and over time, The Little Grand Market has built a few beloved game-day rituals:

The Lucky Jersey Spot: Some regulars claim the same seat each game in their “winning” jersey.
The Halftime Rush: Lines at certain vendors spike at halftime as fans grab their favorite snacks before the third quarter.
The Celebration Chant: Every touchdown is punctuated by a unified “O-H-I-O” that echoes across the market.

These little traditions make the space feel like more than just a place to watch the game — it’s a community of fans.

Tips for the Best Game Day Experience

If you’re visiting The Little Grand Market for the first time on game day, a little planning goes a long way:

Arrive Early: The best viewing spots fill quickly, especially for rivalry games like the Michigan matchup.
Plan Your Food Strategy: With so many vendors, decide ahead of time if you’re going for one big meal or sampling multiple bites.
Coordinate with Friends: Meeting a group? Designate a table “captain” to claim seats while others grab food and drinks.
Check the Specials: Some food and drink deals are limited-time, so ask vendors what’s new for that day’s game.

Upcoming Game Day Schedule

The Little Grand Market hosts watch parties for every Ohio State football game throughout the season. Whether it’s a home opener, a Big Ten battle, or the season finale, you can count on an atmosphere that rivals the stadium.

Check our Event Calendar for upcoming matchups and plan your visit. Big games often come with extra perks — live DJs, expanded vendor menus, and even prize giveaways.

Your Buckeye Headquarters All Season Long

Columbus is packed with sports bars and restaurants, but few can match the energy, variety, and community spirit of The Little Grand Market on game day. It’s more than just a place to watch football — it’s where the city comes together in Scarlet and Gray.

So this season, whether it’s a nail-biting overtime or a blowout victory, make your game-day home right here. Bring your friends. Wear your jersey. And get ready to celebrate like you’re at the Shoe.