The best places in NYC to watch the Knicks playoff series against the Pacers

The excitement is palpable in New York City as Knicks fans gear up for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals after a 25-year wait. Bars across Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx are preparing to host watch parties, with some venues offering special deals and freebies for loyal supporters.

One of the highlights of the evening will be the official Knicks watch party at Radio City Music Hall. Doors open at 7 p.m., and tickets are available for $10 each, with proceeds going to the Garden of Dreams Foundation. While there won’t be an outdoor watch party outside Madison Square Garden, fans can still catch the action at various bars participating in the New York Knicks Bar Takeover program.

Goldie’s Tavern is offering free Goldie’s Lagers to fans wearing Knicks jerseys, along with drink specials on select beers and seltzers. Mustang Harry’s, the official fan bar for the Knicks, is giving out stress basketballs to help ease fans’ nerves during the game. The bar will be decked out in Knicks memorabilia, with life-size cutouts of players and plenty of TVs to ensure every moment is captured.

At The Gin Mill, fans can enjoy $6 cocktails and specialty drinks like Dr. Pepper bombs while cheering on the team. The bar promises a lively atmosphere with possible free shots and surprises depending on the game’s outcome. Feile, an Irish pub, is offering free orange and blue shots at halftime and has cardboard cutouts of Knicks players for photo opportunities.

Penn 6, located near Madison Square Garden, will be streaming the game on a 20-foot projector with volume levels rivaling the stadium itself. The bar is known for post-game celebrations, so expect a lively atmosphere if the Knicks secure a win. In Astoria, Pig Beach is hosting a massive watch party with a 30-foot jumbotron and multiple TVs for fans to enjoy the game.

With the Knicks making a historic run in the playoffs, the city is buzzing with anticipation for Game 1. Whether you choose to watch at a bar or attend the official watch party at Radio City Music Hall, one thing is certain – Knicks Nation will be out in full force, hoping to witness their team make a triumphant return to the Eastern Conference Finals.