New Jersey is canceling a weeks-long World Cup festival at Liberty State Park in Jersey City and is instead allotting $5 million for fan-zone type experiences throughout the state, officials said Thursday.
The FIFA 2026 World Cup tournament is taking place in the U.S., Canada and Mexico and is expected to draw unprecedented interest in New Jersey. MetLife Stadium is scheduled to host eight soccer games, including the final game on July 19.
Viewing events will range from large public gatherings to small and mid-sized community watch parties, festivals and street fairs, according to an announcement from New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill.
“New Jersey is the beating heart of the 2026 World Cup, and this initiative makes sure that every New Jerseyan — no matter where they live — can be part of this once-in-a-generation moment,” Sherrill said in a statement provided by the governor’s office.
The statement did not say why the original plan for a Liberty State Park celebration was abandoned.
Sherrill “made the right call,” said Nathaniel Styer, spokesperson for Jersey City Mayor James Solomon.
“It became increasingly clear that there was no workable, cost-effective way to manage the influx of tens of thousands of fans into Liberty State Park, while maintaining access to the members of the Jersey City community. We are very excited for the opportunities that the World Cup is bringing to Jersey City and we will be rolling out more plans for residents and fans to celebrate this historic event,” Styer said.
The statewide fan zone activities will be organized by the state Economic Development Authority in conjunction with the FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee.
“The World Cup is an unparalleled opportunity to showcase New Jersey to the world and drive real economic impact for our businesses and communities,” said Evan Weiss, CEO of the state Economic Development Authority.
“This initiative is about more than soccer — it’s about making sure that the energy and investment generated by this global event flows directly to the small businesses, cultural organizations, and neighborhood nonprofits that are the backbone of our state,” Weiss said.
Events will be announced in the coming weeks, officials said.
“The New York New Jersey Host Committee “is working in close partnership with Governor Sherrill’s administration and other leaders across New Jersey to expand fan engagement opportunities throughout the state,” the organization said in a statement.
“Building on a centralized regional approach, this expanded model will bring World Cup–related experiences directly into communities across all 21 counties, ensuring broader access and participation,” the organization said.
