NYC plan to support small businesses and offer cheap meals during World Cup 2026
Translated from Spanish and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.
At a glance
- New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani launched programs to boost neighborhood businesses during the 2026 World Cup.
- The "Five Boroughs Winners Special" offers set menus and drinks for $26 at 600 participating establishments.
- Additional initiatives include a "World Rewards" platform for points and prizes, and a "Neighborhood Passport" to encourage exploration of diverse communities.
New York City is rolling out initiatives to energize local businesses and provide affordable options for residents and visitors during the 2026 World Cup. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced several programs on May 22 aimed at integrating small businesses into the tournament's economic landscape.
The "Five Boroughs Winners Special," developed in collaboration with NYC Tourism + Conventions and the New York & New Jersey Host Committee, will feature special menus and drinks priced at $26. Approximately 600 bars, restaurants, and eateries across the city's five boroughs are already registered for this promotion.
"The program will help New Yorkers who work and visitors find a place to eat and drink at a reasonable price, while also boosting commercial activity in our city's neighborhoods," Mamdani stated. The initiative is set to begin on June 11 and run through July 19, coinciding with the World Cup dates. Businesses can register through the city's tourism website until July 1.
The program will help New Yorkers who work and visitors find a place to eat and drink at a reasonable price, while also boosting commercial activity in our city's neighborhoods.
As part of the promotion, participating venues will distribute limited-edition 24-ounce (700 ml) reusable cups, each featuring unique designs representing the different boroughs. This collectible item aims to enhance engagement and provide a tangible souvenir for participants.
Complementing the food and drink special, the Host Committee introduced the "World Rewards" platform. This digital system allows users to accumulate points by visiting participating businesses. Reaching certain point thresholds can unlock prizes, including exclusive merchandise, fan experiences, and even tickets to the World Cup final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium. Committee director Alex Lasry highlighted this as a way for everyone to discover different parts of the city and participate in the event's excitement. Additionally, a "New York City Neighborhoods Passport" will be available at public library branches starting June 11, encouraging participants to collect stamps by visiting immigrant communities, cultural institutions, and local businesses.
This is a way for everyone to discover different areas of the city and join the competition in some way.
Originally published by La Naciรณn in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.