When the first whistle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is blown on Thursday, June 11, summer will be given over to the celebration of soccer. The U.S. is hosting 78 of the 104 World Cup matches in cities across the country — some a stone’s throw away in Gillette Stadium (temporarily renamed “Boston Stadium” in line with FIFA rules around corporate-sponsored stadium names).
Needham fans who did not score game tickets can look to local establishments for alternative watch options. While few restaurants are planning World Cup-themed celebrations, many will be streaming the matches on their televisions.
Blue on Highland will be showing the games, as will Ray’s New Garden, Conrad’s Restaurant and Gari Japanese Fusion Bistro.
The Common Room plans to stream U.S. matches, at minimum, turning up the volume for customers as is the restaurant’s custom with significant sporting events. The James Pub & Provisions will livestream every match, both inside and outside the restaurant — installing an outdoor TV just this week in time for the opening match. Pub owner Stuart Henry said it will be a party in the weeks surrounding the World Cup.
The FIFA Fan Festival will also be hosted close by in Boston City Hall Plaza, serving as the central gathering space for anyone celebrating the World Cup. From Friday, June 12, through Saturday, June 27, the festival will host two to three live match broadcasts each day alongside a Cultural Showcase featuring local artists.
This is the second time the United States has hosted the World Cup, the first time in 1994. Although the U.S. hosted the tournament solo in 1994, the 2026 World Cup is being co-hosted alongside neighboring countries Canada and Mexico.
Mexico will face South Africa in the tournament’s opening match, scheduled for 3 p.m. EST in Mexico City.
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