Game One, Sorted: Five Sydney Venues to Catch the State of Origin Live
State of Origin Game One is best watched loud and these Sydney venues are turning it on with big screens, cold drinks and plenty of game-night atmosphere.
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The battle between the Blues and the Maroons is kicking off again this month for the 2026 State of Origin. On Wednesday, May 27, the New South Wales and Queensland NRL teams will go face-to-face at Accor Stadium in Sydney. While there's nothing like seeing the State of Origin in person, the next best thing isn't streaming it from your couch. Whether you're backing the Blues or bleeding Maroon, these Sydney pubs are showing the game and dialling things up with big screens and cold pints.
Each of these pubs is also listed on the pub+ app. It's free to sign up, there are over 350 participating pubs, and you earn points on every purchase, which then turns into rewards and prizes for you and your mates to enjoy. Download the pub+ app and get more from your local this footy season.
Here's where to lock in your spot for kickoff ahead of Game One.
Harlequin Inn
If you're after a classic pub setup with zero fuss and maximum game-day energy, Harlequin Inn in Pyrmont delivers. The dedicated sports bar, the Edinburgh Room, offers big screens and pool tables, while the bistro and beer garden can serve a solid pub feed and cold drinks. Located on the ground floor, the Lounge also offers four TVs so you can get a front row seat to the action of the NRL.
Crows Nest Hotel
A North Shore staple, the Crows Nest Hotel knows how to host a big sporting night. With multiple viewing zones and plenty of space to settle in, it's a reliable pick if you're wrangling a group. The rooftop bar will be streaming the game live, so you can soak up the NRL energy with a beer in hand and a view.
New Brighton Hotel
For those who like their footy with a side of sea breeze, the New Brighton Hotel is hard to beat. Set just off Manly Beach, the venue spans four levels of dining, bars and live sport, making it an easy choice for a full night out. When the game is on, you'll be able to catch every moment in the Corso Bar, where big screens, cold pints and a lively crowd bring serious State of Origin energy.
North Wollongong Hotel
If you're in Wollongong when game one kicks off, head to the North Wollongong Hotel. The pub is spacious yet full of atmosphere, making it a great pick if you want the buzz of a live showdown without being shoulder-to-shoulder all night. If you plan on grabbing a bite ahead of kick-off, The Bistro offers affordable pub fare. With three bars and an outdoor beer garden, you can catch the game from all angles.
The Ettamogah
Don't want to trek into the city? The Ettamogah in Kellyville Ridge is a family-friendly hotel with multiple dining areas, including an undercover courtyard and children's play centre, making it the perfect destination for a night of sport with the family. Enjoy dinner, including wood-fired pizzas, from the bistro, all while catching the blood-pumping game on the big screen.
Download the pub+ app, and get more from your local this footy season.
Image Credit: Supplied
