A Summer Soccer Celebration at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Emily Roebling Plaza has transformed into a vibrant hub for soccer enthusiasts, offering free access to live World Cup matches on a massive screen. The initiative, branded as the Home of Soccer, runs through Sunday, July 19, and welcomes fans of all ages to gather on the lawn, bring a towel or picnic blanket, and enjoy the games alongside fellow supporters.
Visitors must RSVP for free tickets at least 24 hours in advance, with each adult able to add two children under 18 to the reservation. The space can accommodate up to 3,500 fans, releasing 8,000 tickets daily, and releases them on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Capacity limits and a strict no‑glass‑bottle policy keep the environment safe, while hydration stations provide water for attendees.
Beyond the matches, the plaza buzzes with community‑focused activities. Local food and drink vendors line the area, including a beer garden for guests 21 and older, and a selection of snacks that reflect the global nature of the tournament. Free Panini World Cup cards, some signed by guest players, are raffled before each game, and fans can create personalized Panini x adidas cards using the latest FIFA World Cup 26 collection.
Legends Light Up the Plaza
The event has attracted several iconic figures from the sport. On June 14, former French star Zinedine Zidane, Brazilian legend Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite (Kaka), and teammates Marcelo Vieira da Silva Santos Júnior (Marcelo), Rodrygo Goes (Rodrygo), and Paul Pogba made appearances, signing autographs and greeting fans. Their presence added a celebrity aura to the gathering, drawing media attention and reinforcing the event’s connection to the broader soccer community.
Programming extends beyond regular match screenings. On select dates, the U.S. Soccer Foundation hosts 4v4 pitch takeovers for the Just Ball League, and fans can rent the pitch for free through the PLEI platform when it is idle. The schedule also includes extended hours on certain days, with the space closed only for the Fourth of July holiday from July 3 to 5.
As the tournament progresses, the Home of Soccer continues to evolve, offering fans a unique blend of sport, culture, and community engagement. Whether watching a high‑stakes match, collecting limited‑edition cards, or meeting soccer greats, attendees experience a dynamic summer atmosphere that celebrates the global passion for the beautiful game.