SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — Two Somerset County municipalities will host FIFA World Cup fan events this summer after receiving World Cup Community Initiative Grants from ChooseNJ, the state's economic development marketing arm.
Bernards Township and Hillsborough will use the funding to host watch parties, cultural festivals, and soccer activations ahead of and during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which features matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
"The County is grateful to NJEDA and ChooseNJ for selecting two Somerset County locations that will host FIFA fan experiences," Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson said. "With this funding, we are able to expand local events so that no one needs to miss out on the excitement."
The first event, "The Battle of Basking Ridge Soccer Village & Viewing Party," is scheduled for June 13 in Bernards Township. The second, a World Cup Watch Party & Cultural Festival organized in partnership with the Somerset County Business Partnership and Iron Peak Sports & Events, will be held June 27 in Hillsborough.
"Bernards Township is honored to be one of two municipalities in Somerset County selected to receive funding through the World Cup Community Initiative," said Mayor Ana Duarte McCarthy. "We are thrilled to capture the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with what's sure to be an epic event on Saturday, June 13."
Piers Giles, general manager of Iron Peak Sports & Events, said the investment extends beyond the venue itself.
"Events like the World Cup create moments that transcend competition, fostering connection, pride, and shared experiences across cultures and generations," Giles said.
Residents can get an early taste of World Cup excitement Saturday, May 16, when the official Skyline to Shoreline Road Tour double-decker bus stops at Bernards Township's annual Charter Day festivities in downtown Basking Ridge from noon to 6 p.m. The tour features interactive soccer activities, music, giveaways, and photo opportunities.
"Events like the World Cup bring more than visitors; they bring energy, connection, and opportunity," said Chris Edwards, president and CEO of the Somerset County Business Partnership. "For Somerset County, it's a chance for our business community to engage with a global audience and demonstrate the vibrancy and diversity that define our local economy."
For a full list of Somerset County World Cup events, visit visitsomersetnj.org/fifa-world-cup-2026.
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