Organizers of the Flag Cities events were thrilled that more than 22,000 soccer fans attended the first two efforts — and are looking forward to this Sunday, when the third event of the seven-part series is held at Laurel Hill Park in Secaucus.
They were happier that the events, presented by GOYA in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health, are still bringing corporate sponsors. It’s how they were able to remove the cost of admission.
Just one hour after announcing that Flag Cities would be featuring Ticket Sponsors at all of its remaining events, Edison Parking became the first of two companies expected to provide free tickets for the public at Laurel Hill Park in Secaucus, a location coincidentally nearby its 2500-car parking lot that services Secaucus Transfer Station.
“We have had a great outpouring of support from the business community, which along with EDA, Choose New Jersey and our host communities are inspired by the Free Ticket concept,” Meadowlands Chamber CEO Jim Kirkos said.
The chamber is promoting the event series with long-time collaborator Axiom Communications.
“World Cup in New Jersey is about celebrating together this incredibly historic moment — we should all want to have everyone take part without worrying about the ticket price,” he said.
The Laurel Hill event is at runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and features and SKA Freestyle performance festival food and active and a watch party of the Spain Versus Saudi Arabia game.
The first two Flag Cities events — in Jersey City and Overpeck Park in Bergen County — were supported by ticket sponsors JCT Solutions and Colliers Engineering.
Kirkos said the chamber is hoping more corporate sponsors will step up. He said companies are finding great value.
“The excitement and energy at our first two Flag Cities events have been incredible,” he said. “Thousands of fans came together to celebrate the tournament, enjoy outstanding entertainment and experience the diversity of our region. Thanks to the support of NJEDA and Choose New Jersey, these events remain free and accessible for everyone, and we look forward to welcoming even more fans at our upcoming festivals.”
The festivals feature live entertainment, a kids’ zone, soccer clinics, tournament watch parties, food trucks, local artisans and community organizations.
More than 60 vendors and community organizations participated in the first two events, including over 25 food trucks. Attendees also enjoyed performances by The Village People, Manny Monroig, Giselle Bellas Salsa Band and Jessie’s Girl.
Here’s a look at the upcoming schedule:
June 21: Secaucus (Laurel Hill Park) — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at noon.
- Free Concert at 2 p.m. with TKA, George Lamond & Judy Torres along with special cultural performances
June 24: Newark — 4-9 p.m.
- Scotland vs. Brazil and Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.
- Czechia vs. Mexico and South Africa vs. Republic of Korea at 9 p.m.
June 26: East Rutherford (Riggin Memorial Field) — 5-11 p.m.
- Uruguay vs. Spain and Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia at 8 p.m.
- Musical Performances by Royal Scam and Easy Honey
June 28: Bayonne (Stephen Gregg Park) — Noon-6 p.m.
- Match info: TBD
- Musical Performance by Trapped in Static
July 3: Paterson (Hinchliffe Stadium) — 4-9 p.m.
- Match: TBD
- Musical performance: TBD
