The Bay Area guide to Paris Olympics watch parties

It's the summer of sports , so get your Olympic spirit on.

Driving the news: The Paris Olympics kicks off Wednesday with soccer and rugby starting the games. The opening ceremony is Friday, where athletes will parade down the river Seine in boats instead of in a traditional stadium.

• Over 30 athletes will represent the Bay Area at this year's Games.

Here are some local watch parties to get you started.

The Crossing

Join Bay FC to watch the USWNT face off against Zambia in the group stage of the Olympics ahead of the opening ceremony.

• Thursday noon-2pm at The Crossing's Outdoor Cinema in the East Cut

Santana Row

For those in South Bay, Bay FC is holding a separate watch party in partnership with NBC Bay Area and Telemundo 48. The event will offer opportunities for kids' games and photos with Bay FC players.

• Thursday 11am-3pm at Santana Row Park in San José

Manny's

Come dressed in the colors of the country you want to support and watch the opening ceremony with drinks and pastries in hand.

• Friday 10:30am-2pm at Manny's on 16th Street
• Tickets are $10.30; RSVP here

IMAX

For the first time ever, you can experience the Olympics live in IMAX theaters. Watch the opening ceremony on some of the biggest movie screens.

• Friday 10:30am at participating locations
• Ticket prices vary

NBC Bay Area

NBC Bay Area's Chris Chmura will host a primetime coverage watch party in San Ramon, where you'll be able to meet former Olympians, cheer on Team USA and enjoy games and prizes.

• Friday 7pm at THE LOT City Center Bishop Ranch
• RSVP here

Café Bastille

Experience the Olympics with a slice of Parisian life at this French restaurant, which plans to show the games throughout the next few weeks.

• Every day during hours of operation at Café Bastille on Belden Place in San Francisco

AMC

The movie theater chain will offer showtimes for live morning coverage of the Games, including U.S. men's basketball, swimming, gymnastics, the closing ceremony and more.

• Saturday through Aug. 11 at participating locations
• Ticket prices vary
• RSVP here