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Here's where to see the Knicks now that MSG can't host watch parties
By
Hannah Frishberg
Published May 24, 2026
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Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty Images
By
Hannah Frishberg
Published May 24, 2026
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No more permits are being issued for Madison Square Garden’s popular outdoor watch parties, including for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals this Monday, the NYPD has confirmed. The news comes after police said six people were arrested at the Game 2 watch party on Thursday last week.
The Knicks, who haven’t reached the NBA Finals since 1999 and haven’t won a championship since 1973, have been on a historic 10-game winning streak during the 2026 playoffs. Fans are fired up, and the celebrations outside MSG can often be raucous: Fans mobbed and knocked down former Knick JR Smith when he made an appearance after Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers earlier this month.
Williamsburg’s Brooklyn Bowl is hosting what is functionally the Knicks’ official watch party. It’s the only event listed by name on the team’s NBA page, but would-be watchers will need to get lucky and likely arrive early to attend: The registration form is closed, as the event is at capacity and now welcoming guests on a first-come, first-served basis.
Here are some other watering holes to watch the game that are unlikely to fill up quite as quickly on Monday.
Goldie’s Tavern (135 West 30th St., Chelsea)
This neighborhood spot has bountiful televisions and offers surprisingly good cocktails for a sports bar.
Harlem Tavern (2153 Frederick Douglass Blvd., Harlem)
This uptown bar and grill is known for being a kid-friendly beer garden. Those looking to watch the game tomorrow are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot.
Pig Beach Queens (35-37 36th St., Astoria)
This sprawling indoor-outdoor BBQ joint is usually closed on Mondays, but is now open at 5 p.m. specifically for Knicks playoff games.
Mustang Harry’s (352 Seventh Ave., Midtown)
This 30-year-old, impressively high-ceilinged Irish sports bar and restaurant is barely a block from MSG, offering proximity for fans those pining to watch the game outside.
Jimmy Max (280 Watchogue Rd., Staten Island)
This Staten Island pizza, pasta and seafood restaurant will be offering drink specials throughout the game.
Dive Bar BK (408 Troutman St., Bushwick)
Watch the game among hipsters at this sports bar slash dive that is arguably the best of both Brooklyn worlds.
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Hannah Frishberg
Hannah Frishberg covers New York City arts and culture. Got a tip? Email Hannah at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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