Photo: WBZ NewsRadio Archives
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Boston's 2026 FIFA World Cup Fan Festival officially got underway at City Hall Plaza Friday, inviting thousands of soccer fans to a central gathering for the tournament.
The festival runs through Saturday, June 27 and will include broadcasts of select matches, live music, food vendors, cultural showcases, and more. The event is free and open to the public, although visitors must register in advance in order to attend.
People coming to the festival can only bring certain types of bags inside. These bags must be clear, made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC material, and do not exceed 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches (30 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm). Small clutch purses or wallets are also allowed, but must be approximately the size of a hand and no larger than 4.5 inches x 6.5 inches (or 11 cm x 16.5 cm).
Other prohibited items include weapons of any kind, sports equipment items, inflatable items, strollers, bicycles, food of any kind, alcohol, drones, and television equipment capable of recording audio and video. A full list of prohibited items can be found here.
Boston Stadium in Foxborough hosts its first World Cup match at 9 p.m. Saturday between Haiti and Scotland. Seven matches in total will be held in Foxborough over the course of the tournament, which runs through Sunday, July 19.
Governor Maura Healey's X account posted a list of "Do's and Don'ts" for those attending any of the games.
Fans will be allowed to bring a clear bag that is 12 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches (30 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm) or smaller. They are encouraged to arrive at Boston Stadium early and allow for plenty of travel time. They are also advised to drink water, wear sunscreen, dress appropriately for the weather, and charge their phone beforehand.
Items that are not allowed include large bags, drones, fireworks or flares, noisemakers, sticks or poles, professional cameras, soccer balls, beach balls or similar items. A full list can be found here.
Fans must also not to try to walk to Boston Stadium, rely on last minute transportation options, or engage in illegal or unsafe behavior.
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