Can't go to Rio? Forced to call Australia home during the World Cup? Then you might consider the Copa - Copacabana, that is - for your taste of soccer celebrations, Brazilian-style.

Melbourne is careering into full-blown World Cup fever ahead of the opening ceremony in the wee hours of Friday morning, and the Brazilian community is leading the festive charge.

Copacabana staff Romeo Omar and Luciana Reboucas. Credit:Angela Wylie

Melburnians not making the pilgrimage to South America can experience the flavours of the greatest show on earth at local restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs.

But while the local hospitality and entertainment scene has risen to the challenge - offering myriad ways to see the matches live - Melbourne will be without a free outdoor hub to watch the World Cup.