Goya Presents Flag Cities 2026, the FIFA World Cup 2026 fan festival series in Northern New Jersey, announced March 11 the addition of Newark and Jersey City as the fourth and fifth official host locations, joining Laurel Hill Park in Secaucus, East Rutherford and Bergen County’s Overpeck Park as Flag Cities hosts.
The announcement was made by Goya with Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor James Solomon and Hudson County Executive Craig Guy.
“As New Jersey’s global gateway and its largest city, built by immigrants, we are ready to welcome the world and showcase our rich and varied cultural heritage,” said Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “This partnership ensures that our residents, businesses, and visitors will experience the energy of the FIFA World Cup 2026 – amplified by our vibrant neighborhoods and thriving downtown.”
Jersey City Mayor James Solomon emphasized that the Hudson County city is “one of the most international and dynamic cities in the country, and Flag Cities is a natural fit for our community. Bringing this celebration to the heart of Jersey City will showcase our local businesses, vibrant neighborhoods, and the incredible diversity that defines our city as we join the world in celebrating the FIFA World Cup.”
NJ Transit also was named service partner for Goya Presents Flag Cities 2026, with special programming for transportation services – as well as a cooperative advertising and notification program to riders. Table to Table, New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue, will serve as the official food security partner, adding a critical philanthropic touchpoint that will serve to educate attendees, reduce food waste, and feed local neighbors in need.
Goya Presents Flag Cities also announced several key partners supporting the event series. FIFA official sponsor brands: Casamigos Tequila, Buchanan’s Scotch and Don Julio 1942 Tequila will collaborate to bring cocktails and brand experiences to life during these events. In Thyme Caterers of Moonachie has been named the official concessionaire. Event production partners include ESP Event Productions and Mega Bite Events. New Jersey Youth Soccer will also be participating with on-site activations for kids.
Flag Cities will hold fan festivals on: Friday, June 12 – Christopher Columbus Drive, Jersey City; Sunday, June 14 – Overpeck Park, Bergen County; Sunday, June 21 – Laurel Hill Park, Secaucus; Wednesday, June 24 – Mulberry Plaza, Newark; Friday, June 26 – The Rutherford’s: East Rutherford and Rutherford Downtown.
Each Goya Presents Flag Cities events will feature: Live broadcast of World Cup games on large scale LED screens; food trucks, international cuisine, and beverage vendors; beer garden and VIP lounge; live headline entertainment, DJs, and community performances; kids’ zones with family-friendly activities; shopping vendors, soccer gear, and local crafts; soccer-themed games and immersive fan experiences; embassy and cultural activations; and flag installations, town-wide decorations and pep rallies.
