Queens to host nearly a dozen free World Cup watch parties

A number of World Cup matches will be broadcast throughout the World’s Borough in the coming month, including during a watch party at Queens Borough Hall. Eagle file photo by Ryan Schwach

Free World Cup watch parties will be held across the World’s Borough over the course of the upcoming tournament, officials said on Monday.

Nearly a dozen cultural and civic institutions in Queens will host fans for games throughout the duration of the World Cup, which begins on Thursday.

Through a $75,000 grant allocated by Queens Borough President Donnovan Richards, the Mayor’s Office and NYC Tourism, the watch parties will be free of charge.

“No matter which country’s jersey you wear or what side of the Lionel Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo debate you take, you deserve a place to cheer on your favorite team right in your community without having to open your wallet,” Richards said.

“Making The World’s Game accessible for all in The World’s Borough, regardless of ZIP code or socioeconomic status, is our top priority this tournament, and I’m excited to be working with some tremendous community partners to do just that,” he added. “If you weren’t lucky enough to score a ticket to a match, one of our local watch parties is the next best thing.”

Here’s where fans can watch a number of matches throughout Queens:

The New York Hall of Science

The cultural institution in Flushing Meadows Corona Park will show free screenings on June 14 and June 21 during the group stage matches and on June 28 during the Round of 32, July 5 during the Round of 16 and on July 19, the date of the final. The matches will be broadcast on a 30-foot screen.

Queens Botanical Garden

The Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing will host a free screening of the World Cup final on July 19. Those there to watch the match will also get free admission to the gardens.

MoMA PS1

The Long Island City Museum will show the World Cup final on July 19 in its courtyard.

Pilot House Bar & Grill

The Arverne restaurant will show semifinal matches on Tuesday, July 14 and Wednesday, July 15 on its outdoor lawn. The eatery will also provide free face painting for children, lawn games and free ice pops.

Queens Borough Hall

The People’s House in Kew Gardens will host a free public screening of the World Cup final on July 19 on the building’s steps.