Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that Canalside will host three free community watch parties for the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, giving fans a chance to gather along Buffalo’s waterfront to watch the U.S. Men’s National Team.

The events will coincide with U.S. group stage matches:

June 12, 7 p.m. (match at 9 p.m.) — USA vs. Paraguay

June 19, 1 p.m. (match at 3 p.m.) — USA vs. Australia

June 25, 8 p.m. (match at 10 p.m.) — USA vs. Türkiye

Matches will be shown on a large video board, with food trucks, drinks, a live DJ, giveaways and family-friendly activities planned.

The watch parties are part of a broader state effort to expand access to World Cup events and experiences across New York. The events are supported by the New York State Community World Cup Grant Program and organized in partnership with the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation, Visit Buffalo and Buffalo Waterfront.

State officials said similar large-scale public viewing events are planned for other regions, including Long Island and the Mid-Hudson Valley, with additional details to be announced.

Officials said the events aim to bring residents and visitors together while boosting tourism and economic activity in western New York. The initiative is part of a larger strategy to maximize the statewide impact of the 2026 World Cup.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Buffalo to host free 2026 World Cup watch parties