The FIFA World Cup is heading to New York City in a few weeks and Bronx businesses are preparing to celebrate - Bronx Times

MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will host eight World Cup games from June 11 to July 19, including the final. No games are scheduled in New York City proper, but Mayor Zohran Mamdani wants celebrations across all five boroughs. The Bronx Chamber of Commerce launched a World Cup-themed events directory for the Bronx to connect residents with local activities. The initiative was created after identifying a gap for the Bronx, and it was developed with input from the Bronx World Cup steering committee, which includes organizations such as the Bronx Zoo, the New York Botanical Garden, and local business improvement districts. Watch parties are planned, including one at Lou Gehrig Plaza, while permit processes and public-safety concerns affect event timelines.

"“There's a lot going on for the World Cup, a lot of different coalitions and initiatives, but there was a gap for the Bronx,” Gisselle Galerotti, the communications and marketing manager for the Bronx Chamber of Commerce told the Bronx Times."

"“The Bronx is the forgotten borough. This is an opportunity to highlight everything that is going on because the Bronx does have so much to offer.” Galerotti, who designed the website, said that the idea came from the Bronx's World Cup steering committee . The group, formed in April, includes representatives from the Bronx Zoo, the New York Botanical Garden and local BIDs."

"“We're excited to make it easier for New Yorkers to celebrate,” Mamdani said. “It's a time to celebrate but to also be safe.” Trey Jenkins, the executive director of the 161st Business Improvement District said that he's been looking forward to hosting a FIFA watch party at Lou Gehrig Plaza since he took the job four years ago."

Read at Bronx Times