Allllll of the 2026 FIFA World Cup watch party information continues to roll out, and now one is taking over the second-largest mall in the U.S.
With the big global tournament set to hit North America this summer, the American Dream mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is pulling out all the stops to become the ultimate global hub.
Just steps away from MetLife Stadium, this massive shopping and entertainment complex is launching a colossal 39-day “Dream Fan Fest” to keep the hype going strong from the first whistle to the final goal.
What is the Dream Fan Fest?
Starting on June 11, the American Dream mall will morph into an action-packed soccer sanctuary.
Millions of fans from across the globe are expected to flood the venue.
Even fans without tickets to the matches next door can soak up the global energy and gameday hospitality according to FOX 5 NY.
The mall is utilizing all its epic spaces for the event and visitors can expect massive activations at The Rink, the Dream Live Performing Arts Center, the Expo Center, and even DreamWorks Water Park.
What can fans expect at the festival?
With over 250 retailers, 65 dining venues, and 30 attractions getting in on the fun, the programming is absolutely stacked.
NJ Family notes that restaurants and shops will feature special menus and fan-focused events.
Here is a taste of what is officially on the schedule:
- Massive viewing parties: Watch the games on giant screens surrounded by fellow fanatics.
- Live entertainment: Catch daily concerts, postgame events, and exclusive live performances.
- Celebrity appearances: Keep your eyes peeled for major stars and soccer legends.
- Brand activations: Special pop-ups and giveaways from massive global sponsors like Coca-Cola and Adidas.
- Pre-game marches: Federations from Brazil, France, Germany, and Morocco are hosting pregame hype events before fans march directly over to MetLife Stadium.
Even more soccer attractions
The mall is already building some serious soccer street cred ahead of the games.
Fans can check out The Soccer Factory, a museum dedicated entirely to Diego Maradona, or shop at the exclusive new Adidas soccer flagship store.
Plus, the highly anticipated Messi Experience is expected to open its doors very soon.
To kick things off early, the official FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola will make a special stop at The Rink on June 3 and 4!
Getting there and parking info
Getting to MetLife Stadium is notoriously tricky, and general tailgating or stadium parking is strictly prohibited by FIFA for the World Cup.
Thankfully, American Dream is stepping up as the official parking solution.
Fans with match tickets can book a parking spot on the mall’s grounds through JustPark. Spots will cost you anywhere from $225 to $300.
It might be pricey, but being connected directly to the stadium via pedestrian bridges makes it the ultimate VIP experience for match day.
If not, you’ll be able to catch NJ Transit trains from Penn Station throughout the tournament which run straight to the Meadowlands.
Don’t forget about the other fan fest happening down the road at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, too.