This Harlem Park Will Now Stay Open Until 2 A.M., Mayor Says

HARLEM, NY — The FIFA World Cup has long since ended and the nights have cooled off, but the enthusiasm for late-night footy matches is still going strong.

Harlem River Park's soccer pitch will now remain well-lit and open until 2 a.m. for late-night pickup soccer matches between the city's many local informal teams through the fall, Mayor and notable soccer lover Zohran Mamdani said.

The park, located along the East River between East 125th Street and 145th Street, is one of five in New York City that will stay open between October and November until 2 a.m.

The late-night soccer program will reactivate in April 2027 and last through the FIFA Women's World Cup until the following September.

"The World Cup may be over, but our commitment to a city where every New Yorker can find joy for free continues," Mamdani said. "That is why we’re keeping the lights on at fields across the city and extending this program through next summer and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup."

Over the summer, the pilot program drew more than 4,500 soccer players to participate in late-night games, Mamdani said.

New Yorkers can sign up for a late-night field here.

For questions, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.