SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC NEWS) — The city of Syracuse was recognized as the “Best Bar Town” in America in competition provided by Barstool Sports and High Noon. The win means Barstool president, Dave Portnoy, will be visiting the S.U.’s campus before the end of the university’s school year. The event will feature a bar crawl hosted by Syracuse favorites such as Orange Crate, Faegan’s, Lucy Blu and Hungry Chucks.
Syracuse’s bar scene has always been a notable part of the community with both Faegan’s and recently re-opened Hungry Chucks opening over 40 years ago. Barstool Syracuse President, Sam Holland, explained the importance of these college town pubs.
“Those bars really represent, for a lot of us, the best times we’ve had here. In terms of meeting friends, going out and having fun,” said Holland.
The competition was hosted in March and featured a bracket consisting of 64 college towns across the United States based on region. Voting was based off total points earned through social media using the hashtag, “#SyracuseBBT,” and merchandise purchased from Barstool. With the help of his team, students, and over 15 local businesses, Holland accumulated enticing content to promote Syracuse’s bar scene. Holland says the campaign and event will be beneficial for the city’s outreach.
“In the social media age, marketing is everything. With a school like Syracuse, you’re always trying to get more people to apply for your school. So, something like this, where Dave Portnoy, Barstool and High Noon are coming for a bar crawl, it’s going to put Syracuse on the map,” said Holland.
The date for the bar crawl is set for Apr. 21. The 21+ event is open to anyone who buys a themed t-shirt to be released soon. Former Faegan’s employee, Jackson Haugenes, believes the weekend will be inviting and entertaining for students and alumni alike.
“I think it brings everyone closer. It gives you a chance to just see everyone. I think this could be one of the biggest bar weekends the school has ever seen,” said Haugenes.
Portnoy recently visited Central New York when he ate at local pizza shops for his “One Bite Pizza Reviews.” Updates surrounding the event can be found on @BarstoostCuse on social media.
“We’re excited for Portnoy! Can’t wait to have him!” said Marshall Street’s ‘Shirt World’ owner, Dave Jacobs.