Somerville Extends Business Hours for World Cup; Set to Host SomerCup Soccer Tournament

Don’t want to miss a second of the World Cup action? Head to Somerville, where the City is making it easier for local bars, cafés, restaurants, and other establishments to screen matches for the duration of the tournament. While the pros face off on-screen, all are also invited to lace up their cleats and join SomerCup 2026, the City’s first-ever community soccer tournament. 

“There’s always a hum of energy in the air in Somerville during the World Cup, and with the tournament taking place so close to home, that excitement is only going to grow. We want to make sure our local businesses and community are a part of it," said Mayor Jake Wilson. "By making it easier to request extended operating hours, we're helping create more places for people to gather, cheer, commiserate, and enjoy the tournament together. At the same time, SomerCup will bring neighbors on the field for some fun, friendly competition. No matter who you're rooting for, you'll be able to find your fellow fans in Somerville. As a huge fan of the beautiful game, I can’t wait for this.”  

“Growing up in Cameroon, the World Cup was more than a tournament. It was a source of pride, joy, and national unity,” said Councilor-At-Large Will Mbah. “Today as an elected official, I see those same values reflected in our communities—people from every background coming together around a common purpose.” 

For information and future updates about more World Cup events and watch parties in Somerville, visit somervillema.gov/worldcup. Here’s how to sign up for extra hours as a business, watch locally, or join the SomerCup games. 

SomerCup 2026 

Hit the pitch this season and play with your neighbors in Somerville’s community tournament for kids and adults. SomerCup is co-hosted by Somerville Recreation and the Somerville Office of Immigrant Affairs. Games will take place in July at Dilboy Stadium (110 Alewife Brook Parkway). Sign up yourself or build a team of neighbors, colleagues, and friends. Schedule is as follows. Be sure to register yourself or your team in advance of the June 26 deadline: 

• Sunday, July 12, 12 to 5 p.m.: Kindergarten to Grade 4 
• Monday, July 13, 5 to 10 p.m.: Adults (ages 18 and up) 
• Friday, July 17, 1:30 to 5 p.m.: Grades 5 to 8 and 9 to 12 

Players of all skill levels are welcome to participate. Register individually or as a team (8 to 10 players) now through Friday, June 26 at bit.ly/somercup. 

Score Extra Time at Somerville Small Businesses to Watch Local 

Between June 11 and July 19, 2026, currently licensed Somerville bars, cafes, and restaurants will be allowed extended operating hours. This approval is being given to allow bars and restaurants to operate from 9 a.m. to 3 a.m., with alcohol service from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m., to accommodate patrons before and after games. Businesses may only serve alcohol if they already hold the required license. 

Requests from businesses to extend operating hours must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance through the online form (bit.ly/4o2sXuX). There is no limit on the number of dates that can be requested. Once your watch party plans are confirmed, submit them online (bit.ly/4x4NOBQ).  

Check somervillema.gov/worldcup regularly for updates on local watch parties.  

 Persons with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e., CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures in order to access the programs, activities, and meetings of the City of Somerville should contact the ADA Coordinator in advance at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or ADA@somervillema.gov. 

The City of Somerville can provide you with an interpreter in your language for free. To request an interpreter, please contact us at languageaccess@somervillema.gov or call 311 (617-666-3311) at least 7 days in advance of this event.