New York – Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura announced the continuation of the NYC Open Play pilot, which provides late-night soccer opportunities across all five boroughs, extending through September 2027. The program, which successfully attracted over 4,500 participants in its initial month, allows for play on soccer fields from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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Launched during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and backed by the New York New Jersey Host Committee, the pilot kept a soccer field open in each borough for late-night pick-up games throughout the summer. Due to strong interest, Open Play will resume from October to November 2026 and again from April to September 2027, including during the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
"This summer, we proved that the people's game will always belong to the people," Mayor Mamdani said. He emphasized the importance of providing access to recreational activities even after dark.
Commissioner Shimamura noted that the program demonstrated a significant demand for late-night soccer, highlighting parks as essential community spaces where New Yorkers can stay active and connected beyond standard hours.
Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York New Jersey Host Committee, remarked on the program’s impact, expressing pride in its continuation as a legacy of the tournament.
Participants aged 18 and older can access free pickup soccer at five designated fields: Soundview Park in the Bronx, Calvert Vaux Park in Brooklyn, Harlem River Park in Manhattan, Astoria Park in Queens, and Fairview Park on Staten Island. NYC Parks will oversee field management and lighting.
During the pilot, Calvert Vaux Park was the most frequented location, hosting 1,448 players among 696 bookings. NYC Footy will facilitate the onsite play, and individuals can register for the program online.
For additional details on Open Play and locations, the public can visit the NYC Parks website.