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Hoboken is planning a citywide celebration around the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Officials will roll out a 12-day series of block parties, match screenings and neighborhood events designed to bring both residents and visitors into the mix.

The initiative is a partnership between the city and the Hoboken Business Alliance. It will feature rotating “fan zones” across six neighborhoods. Each will host family-friendly Big Match Block Parties with live game screenings, food and drinks from local businesses, retail pop-ups and entertainment.

To bring the festivities into different neighborhoods throughout the tournament, those zones will span key corridors across the city, including:

• First Street
• 10th Street
• Grand Street
• 14th Street
• Sinatra Drive
• Adams Street

The event will culminate in expanded celebrations for the World Cup final July 19 along First Street and 14th Street.

Mayor Emily Jabbour said Hoboken is ready for the World Cup.

“Our block parties are a time-honored tradition built on community, neighbors, small businesses, artists, and families who give this city its heart,” said Jabbour. “This summer, we’re opening our streets to the world and celebrating the people who make the Mile Square City so great. Whether you are a soccer fan or not, everyone is welcome to come and take part in the fun.”

Putting Hoboken on full display

James Runkle is president of the Hoboken Business Alliance Board of Trustees. He said HBA is proud to partner with the city on the effort.

Stay up to date with all of our World Cup 2026 coverage here.

“With fan zones across the state and here in Hoboken, the energy of the tournament will carry into our streets, where residents, visitors, and local businesses come together to celebrate the games,” said Runkle. “Hoboken has long been a robust business hub and a dynamic destination in its own right, and this summer will put both on full display.”

In addition to the block parties, the city also has plans youth soccer programming at Sinatra Field.

Given its role as a major regional transit hub, with connections to the Meadowlands, Hoboken expects to see significant foot traffic from fans heading to matches at MetLife Stadium. During the tournament, the venue will operate as NYNJ Stadium.

Officials said additional programming details and event announcements, including potential community impacts, will come out in the weeks ahead.

The effort marks the latest local example of a community-focused initiative to celebrate and participate in World Cup festivities. The tournament is set to kick off in under 50 days.