Top 5 Places to Watch the 2012 Olympics

London 2012

Whether you're American, British, Russian, Australian, French, Jamaican, or any of the other 199 nationalities participating in the Olympics this year, you could be one of the millions biting their nails over how to kick off the London 2012 Games. We know, it's a tough decision. But that's perfectly fine! Because here in San Francisco, we have plenty of options. Here are our top picks that will ensure your victory in choosing a prime viewing spot.

Civic Center  (Events on Aug. 7 and 11)
Because who wouldn't want to party on the steps of City Hall? San Francisco's Rec and Park Dept. has organized events that will telecast the games live in the Civic Center Plaza. You won't need to worry about getting that babysitter -- kids are welcome, and will be entertained with games, food, and art and crafts. The events will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days.

Mix the SF Beer Olympics with the 2012 Summer Olympics
This is guaranteed to be a next-level, badass venue. The SF Beer Olympics fall on the same day as the opening of the Games in London. How convenient. They plan to go all out on this one. Don't be afraid to come in unitards, jerseys, polos, or maybe even Speedos, if you're that daring. "Country Shooters" will be available throughout the night as you play beer pong, flip cup, and more. Plus, after the Games, you can head upstairs for free nightclub entry. It all starts at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, July 27, at Impala, 501 Broadway (at Kearny).

London 2012

David Beckham can carry a torch for us anytime

Redwood City
If you want to rub elbows with Olympian Anne Cribs, head down to Redwood City to see NBC Bay Area's live telecast of the Opening Ceremony. And, just in case you get bored of watching Michael Phelps impersonate a sailfish on the high-def LED screen, you can listen to live music by Red White and Blues. It all goes down at the Courthouse Square of Redwood City, 2200 Broadway, starting at 5 p.m. The Ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m.

If you want to keep up on the different personalities in the Olympics, NBC is all over that.

Zeke's Sports Bar & Grill and Mad Dog in the Fog
What says sports more than a traditional bar? If you have that competitive sports streak in you, Zeke's is the place to go. Located just down the street from AT&T park, you can watch the Olympics while hearing the Giants crush the Dodgers. You can also unleash that competitive side of you in a game of darts or billiards.

Mad Dog, one of S.F.'s British pubs, provides you with a more authentic London experience. You can rub elbows with Brits and Americans and enjoy some friendly rivalry.

D.I.Y.
Why not try to throw your own shindig? Yeah, your neighbors may get a little peeved, but you can invite them too! A party doesn't need to be elaborate. All you need are a few themed dishes, some colorful streamers, and maybe some patriotic outfits, if your guests are up to it. And in case you're stumped on what to do, here are some tips.

Game on!