Paterson, Bayonne join flag cities World Cup festival series
The series is part of New Jersey’s broader push to activate cities across the state during the tournament, offering free and ticketed public events that combine live entertainment, cultural programming and match-day viewing experiences.
More Stories
Two more North Jersey communities are joining a growing statewide celebration ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at MetLife Stadium.
Organizers of the “Flag Cities” fan festival series announced that Bayonne and Paterson have been added as official host locations, expanding a lineup that is designed to bring World Cup excitement beyond the stadium and into communities across the region.
The series is part of New Jersey’s broader push to activate cities across the state during the tournament, offering free and ticketed public events that combine live entertainment, cultural programming and match-day viewing experiences.
RELATED: Newark, Jersey City join 'Goya Presents Flag Cities 2026' World Cup fan festivals
In addition to the new locations, organizers highlighted continued support from the state of New Jersey and Choose New Jersey, following a $1.3 million grant award aimed at strengthening event operations. Funding will support security, entertainment programming and regional marketing efforts, according to organizers.
The Flag Cities series will feature multiple stops across North Jersey, including previously announced events in Jersey City, Newark, Secaucus, Bergen County and East Rutherford, alongside the newly added Bayonne and Paterson dates.
Each event is expected to include live music, DJs, food trucks, beverage vendors, cultural activations, family programming and large LED screens broadcasting World Cup matches. Organizers say the goal is to create a shared viewing and celebration experience for residents and visitors throughout the tournament period.
Headline entertainment has also been announced for select dates. The Village People are set to perform at the Jersey City kickoff event on June 12, while Soulja Boy will headline the Newark event on June 24. Additional performers are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Ahead of the series launch, organizers will host a Summer Soccer Celebration on June 8 at American Dream, bringing together local officials, tourism leaders, sponsors, and World Cup stakeholders for a ceremonial kickoff event and preview of the upcoming programming.
Tickets for Flag Cities events are currently on sale at flagcities.com, with admission priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children. Organizers also confirmed that the June 12 Jersey City kickoff event will be free to the public, supported by sponsors.
Organizers say the expanded lineup is intended to showcase New Jersey on a global stage while offering accessible, community-centered celebrations throughout the World Cup season.
