Thursday, October 1, 2026
Free ticket registration has opened for the New York State United 2026 World Cup Watch Experience on Long Island, a large-scale public viewing event set for June 12 at Stony Brook University.
The event is expected to draw thousands of fans for two FIFA World Cup matches: Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina at 3 p.m. and the United States vs. Paraguay at 9 p.m. Families and soccer fans can register for tickets to one or both matches.
Ticketing website: newyorkstateunited.com
The outdoor watch experience will include live match screenings, interactive soccer activities, entertainment and food and beverage vendors, according to the governor’s office.
“I am proud of our efforts to bring the World Cup — a truly global moment — directly into communities across New York State,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in news release. “By creating free, family-friendly viewing events across New York, we’re making it easier for families, fans and communities to come together, celebrate the world’s game and create lasting memories.”
The Long Island event is the first of two flagship World Cup watch experiences planned by the state. A second public viewing event for the FIFA World Cup final is scheduled for July 19 at Kensico Dam Plaza in Westchester County.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said the event would unite fans from different backgrounds through soccer.
“The World Cup is a celebration of cultures from around the world, and it brings people together every four years,” Romaine said in the release. “We’re looking forward to this event and the joy it will bring; so many soccer fans will have the opportunity to watch their teams as a community.”
State officials said the viewing events are part of a broader initiative tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aimed at increasing participation in youth soccer and encouraging outdoor community activities across New York.
“As New York’s #1 public university and a SUNY flagship, Stony Brook University is thrilled to be hosting this first-ever World Cup Watch Experience, SBU President Andrea Goldsmith said in the release.
“We look forward to hosting community members from across Long Island and beyond on our beautiful campus to cheer on their favorite team in a shared and spirited celebration,” she added. “This event supports our aspiration to serve as a social and cultural engine for Long Island, bringing people together for energizing and meaningful moments like this one. We look forward to opening our doors, strengthening our deep community connections and celebrating this historic global event together.”
Fans registering for tickets can also opt in for transportation updates, schedules and event notifications by email or text message.
More information and ticket registration are available through the state’s tourism website, ILoveNy.com/fifa-world-cup/community-viewing-events/
Officials also encouraged attendees using public transportation to check service updates through the MTA website, the MTA app or the TrainTime app before traveling.
