The state announced 34 grant recipients for public fan experiences and community events tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the Tri-County Fair in Rockaway.
MORRIS COUNTY, NJ – A Rockaway event is among 34 New Jersey-based organizations selected for grants through the $5 million NJ World Cup Community Initiative, a state program aimed at supporting public fan experiences and community events tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Governor Mikie Sherrill’s office announced the recipients May 6, 2026, saying the grants will support fan zones, street fairs, watch parties and festivals across the state.
The Morris County-area recipient is Tri-County Fair 2026, scheduled for June 18-21 and listed under CARE Center of New Jersey, Rockaway. Other nearby recipients include The Battle of Basking Ridge Soccer Village & Viewing Party in Bernards Township and the Hackettstown Street Fair with World Cup Celebration.
The grant program was developed and funded by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, with Choose New Jersey administering the application and distribution process on behalf of the state. Final award determinations were approved by the NJEDA, according to the Governor’s Office.
State officials said the initiative is intended to spread World Cup-related activity beyond the stadium and into communities, downtowns and cultural hubs. The Governor’s Office also said grant-funded events will be integrated into the NYNJ Host Committee’s Welcome World Rewards Program, which allows visitors to check in at participating events and earn points toward merchandise, experiences and match tickets.