As Worcester prepares to host thousands of soccer fans for a series of FIFA World Cup watch parties on the common, city officials are rolling out road closures, parking plans and security measures intended to keep the downtown events running smoothly.
The city announced Wednesday that multiple downtown streets will be closed ahead of each of the four “Game On Worcester” watch parties, which broadcast World Cup matches on the Worcester Common as part of a statewide effort to bring the tournament experience to communities beyond the host stadiums.
Closures for the first event, scheduled for Saturday, June 13, begin at 3 p.m. Officials said subsequent closure times will be announced before each watch party. Streets are expected to reopen approximately 30 to 45 minutes after each event concludes.
The closures affect portions of Franklin Street, Front Street, Commercial Street, Portland Street, Church Street, Mechanic Street and Norwich Street. Motorists are being encouraged to plan ahead and expect traffic impacts in the downtown area.
The watch parties are part of Worcester’s broader World Cup celebration after the city received state funding through the administration’s Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grant Program. The funding is supporting public viewing events and soccer-themed programming tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which runs through July.
City officials have previously said Worcester expects to host multiple family-friendly watch parties on the common, creating opportunities for residents to gather and participate in the global tournament atmosphere while Massachusetts hosts seven World Cup matches.
To accommodate attendees, the city is directing drivers to several nearby parking facilities, including the Federal Plaza Garage, Pearl-Elm Garage, Mercantile Center Garage, Worcester Common Garage and the McGrath/Worcester Public Library Garage.
Officials also outlined several security and safety measures. According to the city’s announcement, bags may be subject to search, and any alcohol consumed at the events must be purchased on site and remain within designated areas.
With summer temperatures beginning to climb, attendees are also being encouraged to take precautions during periods of heat and humidity. The city said weather advisories, security updates and any additional event information will be posted through municipal communication channels as the tournament progresses.
The watch parties are expected to serve as Worcester’s centerpiece celebrations during the month-long international tournament.
