New Jersey is officially kicking off its countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ with a major boost from the state. Goya Presents Flag Cities, in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health, announced Tuesday that it has received a $1.3 million grant from Choose New Jersey to expand what has become the state’s premier World Cup fan festival series.
The funding will support a high-octane event series across seven North Jersey cities, featuring legendary musical headliners, giant LED match broadcasts, and immersive cultural “fan zones” as the region prepares to host matches at MetLife Stadium.
The series is leaning into “star power” to draw crowds. The legendary Village People are set to officially kick off the festivities at the Jersey City event on June 12. Following them, rapper and viral entertainer Soulja Boy will headline the Newark event on June 24.
“Flag Cities started as a vision to create community-centered celebrations, and it has evolved into a major regional event series,” Jim Kirkos, president & CEO of the Meadowlands Chamber said.
In addition to the previously announced schedule, the festival has added two historic locations to its roster:
- Sunday, June 28: Stephen Gregg Park in Bayonne.
- Friday, July 3: Historic Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson.
“Paterson is one of the most diverse cities in the country, and this event will be an incredible celebration of culture, soccer, and community pride,” Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh said. Bayonne Commissioner Kenneth Kopacz echoed the sentiment, noting that the event honors the deep soccer traditions of Hudson County families.
With the new additions, the series now spans nearly a month of celebrations:
- June 12: Jersey City (Free to the public thanks to JCT Solutions & Colliers)
- June 14: Overpeck Park, Bergen County
- June 21: Laurel Hill Park, Secaucus
- June 24: Newark
- June 26: Riggins Field, East Rutherford
- June 28: Stephen Gregg Park, Bayonne
- July 3: Hinchliffe Stadium, Paterson
The $1.3 million grant from Choose New Jersey is designed to ensure the economic impact of the World Cup reaches beyond the stadium walls. The funds will be utilized for high-level security, international marketing, and premium entertainment programming.
“Events like these highlight the energy, diversity, and innovation that position New Jersey as a leading destination for international investment and tourism,” Amy Herbold, president & CEO of Choose NJ said.
Tickets are officially on sale at www.flagcities.com. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children, though the Jersey City kickoff remains free. Each location will offer:
- Giant LED screens for live match viewing.
- Beer gardens and food truck alleys.
- “Kids’ Soccer Zones” and cultural activations.
- Immersive fan programming celebrating the diverse nations participating in the World Cup.
To build momentum, Flag Cities will host a “Summer Soccer Celebration” on June 8 at American Dream in East Rutherford, serving as the ceremonial launch for the entire series.
With heavy-hitting sponsors like Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, NJ TRANSIT, and Goya Foods on board, the Flag Cities series is positioned to be the heartbeat of New Jersey’s 2026 World Cup experience.
