Get started in Newark for FIFA World Cup 2026™, emerging as the region’s fan destination | News

In the lead-up to this summer’s FIFA World Cup 2026™, the City of Newark is launching an extensive series of events, community programs and initiatives for fans, visitors and residents, including community grants. Fans arriving for matches will find a city that reflects the game they love: global, expressive and full of culture.

Led by Newark Alliance in partnership with the City of Newark and Invest Newark, at the heart of the “Kick it in Newark” campaign is a commitment to ensuring that Newarkers not only host this global event – ​​but that visitors and residents alike experience the full cultural, economic and social momentum of this unique moment. Activations will take place in public spaces, neighborhoods, hotels and cultural venues throughout the city, creating a safe and vibrant environment designed to invite exploration while showcasing Newark’s thriving arts, food, music and diverse communities.

“Anyone who knows Newark knows that so many of our residents trace their family roots to countries that dominate the World Cup,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “Newark bursts with pride during the FIFA matches every four years – and this year, as the Flag City, we are pulling out all the stops to provide residents and visitors with an immersive, festive football experience. We are ready to welcome the world to come stay with us. Treat yourself to our dining, music, art, shopping and the unique atmosphere that only Newark can provide.”

Among the signature events recently announced is the selection of Newark as the host location for Goya Presents Flag Cities 2026, a regional fan festival series celebrating the tournament in the Meadowlands area. The Newark event is scheduled for June 24, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Mulberry Commons in downtown Newark and will feature live entertainment, cultural programming, interactive experiences and big-screen competitions.

To help residents and visitors experience more of Newark during FIFA World Cup 2026™, Newark Alliance hosted a special World Cup cycle of its Experience Newark Event Sponsorship Program. The initiative will provide micro-grants to support community-driven events across the city, with eligible events taking place from June 27 to July 19, 2026.

Ashley Mays, chief marketing officer at Newark Alliance and president of Newark Happening, said the program is designed to encourage grassroots initiatives that create community while authentically welcoming visitors. “The Experience Newark Community Event Sponsorship Program grants help neighborhoods bring their ideas to life and create experiences that reflect the diverse cultures and pride of the Newark community,” Mays said.

In addition to the community programming, Newark Alliance will collaborate with local hotels to create “Stay & Play” packages to encourage visitors to explore the city’s dining, arts and cultural offerings outside of game days, and Mobile Passport Newark Explorer Trails on Bandwango to make it easy for visitors to explore a variety of local businesses in all neighborhoods of the city and a variety of thematic trails such as “Arts, Beauty & Culture,” “Self-Care” and “Wellness.” Visitors will discover Newark as a living, breathing city where music, art, food and community energy come together to create a world-class experience.

The Newark Alliance’s “Newark Welcome Team” initiative engages hospitality ambassadors who circulate around transit hubs, major events and high-traffic locations to assist visitors, make recommendations and connect guests with local attractions and businesses.

Invest Newark, Newark’s economic development agency, also offers training programs and grants to support local businesses participating in the World Cup. The Ready, Set, Goal training sessions will continue the week of April 13 and applications for the Invest Newark Ready, Set, Goal Business Development Grant will close on April 20. Marcus Randolph, president and CEO of Invest Newark, said the initiatives are intended to deliver both immediate and lasting benefits. “The World Cup provides a rare opportunity to showcase Newark to a global audience while generating meaningful economic impact for local businesses and communities,” he said.

Newark’s location, walkable downtown and proximity to MetLife Stadium make it a natural gathering place for fans traveling through the region. But Newark’s role in FIFA World Cup 2026™ is about more than geography. It is a city shaped by cultural diversity and a real connection to football, reflected in its residents and in institutions such as Ironbound Soccer Club and St. Benedict’s Prep. As the tournament approaches, investments in public safety, beautification, infrastructure and community programming will help Newark welcome visitors while creating lasting benefits for residents. During the World Cup, the city’s neighborhoods, public spaces and festivals will showcase the energy, pride and community spirit that define Newark. The coordinated effort will support public safety, beautification, infrastructure improvements and engagement across the city while strengthening Newark’s reputation as a cultural and tourism destination. During the World Cup, the city’s neighborhoods, public spaces and festivals will come together as one rhythm – a reflection of the global spirit of soccer and Newark’s own legacy of creativity, resilience and community.

For more information, visit https://www.newarkhappening.com/FIFA2026/