The countdown is officially over—the FIFA World Cup 2026™ kicks off today, Thursday, June 11, in Mexico City! While the global tournament is officially underway, our region's local matches at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) start this Saturday, June 13. Local transit and street impacts will be most noticeable on these eight specific match days:

  • Saturday, June 13
  • Tuesday, June 16
  • Monday, June 22
  • Thursday, June 25
  • Saturday, June 27
  • Tuesday, June 30
  • Sunday, July 5
  • Sunday, July 19

Below, explore our ultimate guide to the neighborhood's World Cup celebrations, featuring the best local watch parties, exclusive dining deals, family workshops, and the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Merchandise Store at The Shops at Columbus Circle. Then, look further down for a crucial breakdown of match-day transit updates, Columbus Circle traffic adjustments, and strict city delivery restrictions to keep your daily routine or business running smoothly all month long.


If you are hosting a World Cup celebration, screening, or special offer in the neighborhood, please let us know by emailing info@lincolnsquarebid.org so we can help share the news.


For those looking to experience the tournament live, limited last-minute tickets are available on the FIFA World Cup 2026™ website and Ticketmaster. Please beware of scammers and ticket fraud, and do not purchase tickets from unauthorized sellers on the sidewalks. To everyone who scored tickets to a match, we hope you enjoy the game!


For tournament guides, local events, and updates, visit https://nynjfwc26.com/ and nyctourism.com/worldcup26.

Your Guide to World Cup

Celebrations in Lincoln Square

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ kicks off on Thursday, June 11, in Mexico City, with the first New York/New Jersey-area match taking place on Saturday, June 13, at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium). Throughout the tournament, which runs through Sunday, July 19, Lincoln Square and New York City will be celebrating with special events, watch parties, shopping, dining promotions, family-friendly activities, and public activations. Whether you're looking to catch a match over food and drinks, take advantage of World Cup specials, cheer alongside fellow fans at a watch party, shop for official merchandise, or take part in tournament-themed events, there are countless ways to join the excitement. 

Navigating World Cup Transit

and Transportation in Lincoln Square

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is here! While matches will be played across the river at New York New Jersey Stadium (Metlife Stadium), the southern edge of Lincoln Square will serve as a key Manhattan transit and connection hub. From Saturday, June 13, through Sunday, July 19, our neighborhood will see a significant influx of visitors, increased foot traffic, and heightened security. Local street and transit impacts will be most noticeable on the eight specific match days: Saturday, June 13; Tuesday, June 16; Monday, June 22; Thursday, June 25; Saturday, June 27; Tuesday, June 30; Sunday, July 5; and Sunday, July 19.


It’s an exciting time in New York City, with the Knicks on top, Pride celebrations happening across the five boroughs, and plenty more to enjoy. As temperatures climb during this week’s heat wave, be sure to stay cool and hydrated no matter how you celebrate. New Yorkers are advised to avoid spending prolonged periods of time outdoors. Call 911 immediately if you or someone else shows signs of heat-related illness, such as confusion, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.


To find your nearest cooling center, click here or call 311. For more preparedness information, please visit https://nyc.gov/beready or www.nyc.gov/beattheheat.