RED BANK, NJ — Red Bank has been awarded $50,000 through the NJ World Cup Community Initiative Grant Program for its upcoming World Cup Activation Series this summer.
Set to take place in June and July, the series is a multi-location public event that will be held in celebration of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The initiative was announced by Governor Mikie Sherrill alongside the NJ Economic Development Authority (NJ EDA), Choose New Jersey, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York New Jersey Host Committee as part of a $5 million statewide investment supporting community activations and public fan experiences across New Jersey.
According to a borough announcement, Red Bank was selected as one of the limited number of statewide community experience grant recipients for its proposal to transform public spaces throughout the borough into “vibrant gathering places that celebrate soccer, culture, community, and small business vitality” during one of the world’s largest sporting events.
The borough’s World Cup Activation Series will include:
“While public watch parties will serve as anchor moments, the broader initiative is designed as a creative placemaking strategy that activates public spaces and encourages residents and visitors to experience Red Bank as a vibrant regional destination,” borough officials said.
Through the support of its partners, the borough plans to incorporate diverse community-centered programming that “reflects the energy, creativity, and cultural diversity of both Red Bank and the World Cup itself.”
“Our Red Bank community knows how to show up with energy, creativity, and heart,” Red Bank Mayor Billy Portman said. “This $50,000 grant gives us the opportunity to turn that spirit into something truly special through our World Cup activation series.”
“It’s always exciting to see what happens when we collaborate with partners across sectors and throughout the region around a shared goal,” he continued. “I can’t wait to see Count Basie Park buzzing with soccer fans and that Red Bank energy spreading far beyond our town.”
According to borough officials, their proposal emphasized Red Bank’s position as a regional destination, with a walkable downtown, strong arts and cultural infrastructure and direct accessibility through the North Jersey Coast Line — allowing residents and visitors from across the state to participate in activations without relying solely on vehicle access.
The activation series is expected to generate increased foot traffic and economic activity for local restaurants, retailers, and businesses while creating inclusive public programming accessible to residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
“The Red Bank World Cup Activation Series represents the kind of forward-thinking, community-centered investment we are proud to champion in District 11 and demonstrates the power of regional collaboration,” said Senator Vin Gopal, Assemblywoman Margie Donlon, and Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul of the District 11 Legislative Office.
“We are excited to see this investment create opportunities for our constituents, strengthen local economic activity, and showcase our community spirit.”
Grant-funded events will also participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York New Jersey Host Committee’s Welcome World Rewards Program, encouraging visitors to explore communities throughout the region while supporting local businesses and destinations.
Additional programming details, activation dates, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer information, and community participation announcements will be released in the coming months.
To learn more, you can visit the Borough of Red Bank website.
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