Governor Hochul Announces Canalside In Buffalo To Host Usa Soccer Watch Parties During FIFA World Cup 2026™

Free Watch Parties To Feature Drinks, Food Trucks, Live DJ, Giveaways and Family-Friendly Activities

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that Canalside in Buffalo will host three free community watch parties for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ group stage. Soccer fans are invited to gather at the waterfront to support the U.S. Men's National Team in their highly anticipated matches against Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye. These events are brought to the public through a partnership between the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC), Visit Buffalo and Buffalo Waterfront.

"New York is excited to be able to host visitors from across the globe and also give New Yorkers the opportunity to tune in to the world's biggest sporting event," Governor Hochul said. "The State is proud to play a major role in the FIFA World Cup and now communities across New York will be able to share in the experience."

The USA Soccer Watch Parties will take place on:

• June 12, 7 p.m. - USA vs. Paraguay (match starts at 9 p.m.)
• June 19, 1 p.m. - USA vs. Australia (match starts at 3 p.m.)
• June 25, 8 p.m. - USA vs. Türkiye (match starts at 10 p.m.)

The matches will be shown on a giant video board, with attendees able to enjoy drinks, food trucks, a live DJ, giveaways and family-friendly activities.

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Empire State Development is proud to bring the global energy of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ directly to Buffalo's historic waterfront. Through the New York State Community World Cup Grant Program, we are transforming Canalside into a vibrant hub where world-class athletics meet local community spirit. These watch parties create an unforgettable atmosphere for soccer fans and families to unite and cheer on the USMNT, while further showcasing the vitality of Western New York."

ECHDC Chairperson Joan Kesner said, "Canalside is a natural gathering place for Buffalo, and these watch parties will give fans a chance to come together and support the USMNT as they take the world stage. Thanks to support from Governor Hochul and Empire State Development, we're able to offer a welcoming, high-quality experience that highlights the continued momentum of Buffalo's waterfront."

Read the full press release here.