Four New Jersey Spots Set to Host Flag Cities Fan Festivals During World Cup
Lyndhurst, Bergen County, Secaucus and East Rutherford were selected to host the World Cup fan events during the tournament next June.
United States fans show their support during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Doha, Qatar.
Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty ImagesThe Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce unveiled Flag Cities 2026 on Dec. 2. This marks a series of fan festivals that will take place before five FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage matches at MetLife Stadium. The venue will host eight total matches, including the final on July 19.
Each event will draw between 8,000 and 15,000 attendees.
Goya Foods serves as the presenting sponsor. Axiom Communications will produce the series.
"Hosting the World Cup is an unprecedented moment for our region, and Flag Cities gives our communities the chance to lead the celebration," said Jim Kirkos, president and CEO of the Meadowlands Chamber, according to NJBiz. "These events unify civic pride, business engagement, and soccer passion in a way that reflects the energy and diversity of the Meadowlands."
Officials announced four confirmed sites. Riverside Park in Lyndhurst will host on June 12, followed by Overpeck Park in Bergen County on June 14. Secaucus Downtown will hold festivities on June 21, and East Rutherford Downtown will wrap up the series on June 26. One date remains open on June 24.
Ron Simoncini, president of Axiom Communications, said the program has been in development for over a year and a half. The concept came from discussions about how to involve local municipalities and businesses in the eight-game series at the stadium.
Bergen County Executive James Tedesco III said the county is working with organizers for the Overpeck Park celebration.
Programming will include live broadcasts on large LED screens, food trucks with international cuisine, beer gardens, VIP lounges, live music, and DJs. Kids' zones, shopping vendors, soccer gear stands, and soccer-themed games will provide family-friendly activities. Embassy and cultural activations will represent participating nations.
Peter Unanue, third generation executive at Goya Foods, said his company is proud to serve as the presenting sponsor as it celebrates its 90th anniversary.
The company will serve as the culinary and cultural centerpiece of the festivals.
Tickets will go on sale in the first quarter of 2026, with pricing yet to be determined. Host town residents will receive a discount. A limited number of VIP tickets will offer premium amenities.
The World Cup draw takes place Dec. 5, which will reveal which teams will play at the stadium.
