FRANKLIN — World Cup excitement is coming to downtown Franklin as the MetroWest Regional Fan Zone hosts two days of watch parties on June 24 and 25 at the Franklin Town Common and Hayward Manor.
The events will feature live match broadcasts on a jumbotron, food trucks, a beer garden, vendors, live entertainment, soccer activities, and family-friendly games.
“It’s basically a giant watch party surrounded by a festival,” said Stacey David of the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau.
The June 24 event runs from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. and includes Switzerland vs. Canada at 3 p.m., followed by Scotland vs. Brazil at 6 p.m. The June 25 event runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and features Ecuador vs. Germany at 4 p.m., followed by Tunisia vs. Netherlands at 7 p.m.
David said the Franklin Town Common will host vendors and activities, while Hayward Manor will feature the jumbotron viewing screen and beer garden. Food trucks will line the blocked-off roadway between the two locations.
Franklin Director of Arts and Culture Corey Shea said the event is an opportunity to bring residents and visitors together during one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
“We’re so excited to be able to do this for residents, but also regionally just to be part of this programming,” Shea said. “It just is an opportunity for all of us to get together, celebrate, root on our favorite soccer players and soccer teams.”
The Fan Zone will also include activities hosted by Franklin Youth Soccer, Southwick’s Zoo, the New England Revolution, and Viking Sports. Revolution defender Andrew Farrell and mascot Slyde are also expected to make appearances.
Tickets are free, but registration is required. More information is available at http://metrowestvisitors.org/world-cup.
