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Brazil vs morocco
Watch party — South Paterson
IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
Passport to Paterson™ Brings the World Cup Spirit to One of America’s Most Diverse Cities
A citywide cultural celebration featuring international watch parties, music, food, local businesses, and community pride ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™
Press Release
In a city where dozens of cultures, languages, and traditions live side by side, Passport to Paterson™ is set to transform Paterson into one of New Jersey’s most vibrant destinations during the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ season.
Led by community partners, local organizations, and business leaders, Passport to Paterson™ will feature a series of large-scale cultural watch parties and immersive experiences designed to celebrate the city’s global identity while supporting local economic activity.
From South Paterson to Hinchliffe Stadium, residents and visitors alike will experience international soccer surrounded by live music, cultural performances, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and the unmatched energy that makes Paterson one of America’s most multicultural cities.
“Passport to Paterson is about more than soccer,” said Farhanna B. Sayegh, community strategist and organizer behind the initiative. “It’s about culture, connection, small businesses, and showing the world what makes Paterson special. During the World Cup, people will be looking for authentic experiences, and Paterson already lives and breathes that authenticity every day.”
The series builds on Paterson’s organic global soccer culture, including the massive celebrations that erupted throughout the city during Morocco’s historic 2022 World Cup run. Organizers say the goal now is to proactively create safe, welcoming, and culturally rich spaces where communities can gather together.
PLANNED EVENTS
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Brazil vs. Haiti (Juneteenth Celebration)
Honoring Paterson’s own Derrick Etienne Jr. — Hinchliffe Stadium
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Turkey vs. USA
Indoor cultural experience
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Colombia vs. Portugal
Celebration at Hinchliffe Stadium
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World Cup Final Viewing Event
Large-scale citywide celebration
Organizers are also working alongside local restaurants, artists, performers, sponsors, and entrepreneurs to ensure the initiative creates meaningful opportunities for Paterson’s business community.
The initiative aligns with broader regional excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, which will bring global attention to the New York/New Jersey region.
“Paterson has always been an international city,” said Sayegh. “Passport to Paterson gives us an opportunity to celebrate that identity proudly and invite others to experience it with us.”
Additional details, schedules, sponsorship opportunities, and volunteer information will be announced in the coming weeks.
MEDIA CONTACT
For press inquiries, interviews, and sponsorship information:
Farhanna B. Sayegh
About Passport to Paterson™
Passport to Paterson™ is a citywide cultural initiative designed to celebrate the diversity, energy, and entrepreneurial spirit of Paterson through international soccer watch parties, arts, food, and community experiences connected to the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™.
About the Andre Sayegh Civic Association
The Andre Sayegh Civic Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the Greater Paterson area through civic engagement, community partnerships, and local leadership. We create opportunities for residents to connect, grow, and lead. Our initiatives include:
- MLS GO Partnership: Bringing a local soccer league that drives community pride and participation
- Cub Scout Pack: Engaging youth and parents in service and leadership
- Girl Goals Summer Program: A seven-week initiative inspiring future leaders
- Community Support Programs: Providing food and toys during the holidays, winter coats, and other essential resources to assist Paterson’s most vulnerable residents
- Neighborhood Heroes Support: Funding and partnering with small, local nonprofit initiatives led by dedicated community leaders who are making a difference in their neighborhoods
Through these and other efforts, the Association fosters unity, empowerment, and progress across Greater Paterson. Learn more at www.SayeghCivic.org