FRANKLIN/MARLBOROUGH – The MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau, in partnership with the City of Marlborough and the Town of Franklin, has released new details for its MetroWest Regional Fan Zones, which will bring official FIFA World Cup™ watch parties to the region during the 2026 tournament. Organizers have also opened free ticket registration, though advance tickets will be required for all attendees.
The Fan Zones are among only a handful of officially licensed public viewing events in Massachusetts authorized to livestream FIFA World Cup™ matches, offering local fans a rare opportunity to experience the tournament atmosphere close to home. MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau Executive Director Stacey David said the events are designed to be more than just match viewings, creating a festival environment that celebrates the international spirit of the World Cup while showcasing MetroWest as a destination for visitors and residents alike.
The first Fan Zone will take place at Kelleher Field in Marlborough from June 11-13. Matches scheduled for viewing include Mexico vs. South Africa, USA vs. Paraguay, Brazil vs. Morocco, and Haiti vs. Scotland. Activities will include soccer-themed games, axe throwing, photo booths, interactive challenges, food vendors, and a beer, wine, and cocktail garden featuring Lawson’s Finest Liquids. International music and World Cup anthems will play throughout the event to create a high-energy festival atmosphere.
The second Fan Zone will be held at the Franklin Town Common and adjacent Hayward Manor on June 24 and 25. Visitors will be able to watch Switzerland vs. Canada, Scotland vs. Brazil, Ecuador vs. Germany, and Tunisia vs. Netherlands on a giant jumbotron. Interactive activities will include soccer darts, soccer shootouts, a New England Revolution Accuracy Kick challenge, giant tic-tac-toe, lawn games, and family-friendly entertainment. Franklin’s event will also feature a Michelob Ultra Beer Garden serving Stella Artois, Michelob Ultra, Nutrl seltzers, and beverages from local craft producers.
Both Fan Zones will feature live entertainment, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, family activities, and World Cup Dance Parties between matches, where attendees can participate in games like Just Dance on the jumbotron. The New England Revolution mascot Slyde will make appearances at both locations for fan interaction and photo opportunities. Food options will range from traditional festival favorites like popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones to empanadas, Venezuelan and Caribbean specialties, fried dough, fried Oreos, and more.
The MetroWest Regional Fan Zones are sponsored in part by Southwick’s Zoo, Dean College, and Brazilian Times. Additional information, including free ticket registration, match schedules, parking information, and the official Fan Zone Guide, is available through the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau.
