Thursday, October 1, 2026
Following the success of its inaugural "Soccer in the Park" watch party on June 19, The Island FC, in partnership with Nassau County and County Executive Bruce Blakeman, will host a second free public viewing event for the United States Men's National Team's FIFA World Cup 26 Round of 32 match on July 1.
More than 6,700 fans gathered at Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre in Eisenhower Park to watch the United States defeat Australia during the club's first watch party.
The July 1 event will begin at 7 p.m., ahead of the 8 p.m. kickoff. Gates will open at 6 p.m. at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre in Eisenhower Park.
The return of Soccer in the Park follows the strong community response to the first event and continues to build momentum for the sport on Long Island as fans rally behind the U.S. team in the tournament's knockout stage, in which teams are eliminated after a loss.
The event also coincides with America 250 celebrations taking place in Nassau County and across the country, adding to the significance of gathering to support Team USA on the international stage.
Fans attending the free event will be able to watch the match on two large video screens and participate in giveaways and family-friendly activities. Merchandise, concessions and beverages will be available throughout the evening. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Free parking will be available on-site, with Lots 6 and 6A located closest to the venue.
Free tickets are available by registering at TheIslandFC.com.
"This first event showed exactly what we've known all along, that Long Island is ready to rally around this game in a big way," Travis Lamprecht, president of business operations for The Island FC, said in a statement. "To see more than 6,700 people come together was special, and it reinforced how strong the soccer community is here. We're excited to do it again and keep building these moments with our fans and partners across Nassau County."
Blakeman said the strong turnout at the inaugural event made bringing Soccer in the Park back an easy decision.
"The energy and turnout at our first event were outstanding," Blakeman said. "As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, this is a great opportunity for Nassau County residents to come together, support Team USA, and experience the excitement of the World Cup right here in Eisenhower Park, the centerpiece of our county parks system. We're proud to partner with The Island FC once again to welcome families and fans from across the region for another special evening."
For updates and additional information, visit TheIslandFC.com or NassauCountyTourism.com.
The Island FC is an MLS NEXT Pro club that plans to launch its professional team in 2027 as part of a player development pathway connecting youth soccer to the professional level.
