What we know (and don't) about Boston's World Cup fan festivities
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Small businesses looking to host FIFA World Cup watch parties and other events are still awaiting clarity on what they can do this summer.
Why it matters: Boston-area businesses want a piece of the economic boon that FIFA organizers predict the tournament will bring.
State of play: Boston organizers are planning a cultural showcase as part of the 16-day Fan Fest at City Hall.
- The city will share more information about registering for the free events, which is required so the city can prevent overcrowding.
Yes, but: Organizers shared little details Tuesday about what Fan Fest programming will entail, saying it's in the works with 53 days to go.
- Officials did announce they're awarding the Fan Fest security contract to Herby Duverné's firm, the Windwalker Group.
- He is also a member of MeetBoston's board of directors.
Beyond Fan Fest, Boston plans to issue block party grants to neighborhood organizations hosting World Cup watch parties and community-building micro-grants for businesses looking to host World Cup events.
- The city plans to hold webinars to explain the grant opportunities and office hours for businesses seeking to apply for grants, longer hours and one-day entertainment licenses, Wu said.
What they're saying: "We are going to have an unforgettable summer, and we can't wait to welcome the world to Boston," Wu told reporters on Tuesday.
By the numbers: Boston World Cup organizers predicted the tournament would bring $1 billion to the region, though at least one expert projects the economic impact will be lower.
Friction point: Fan Fest is one of the only free World Cup events so far, and spectators have complained about the Commuter Rail's surcharge and a $95 express bus running from Logan Airport to Foxborough.
- They also complained about the restriction on tailgating, per WCVB.
- Mike Loynd, the Boston host committee's president, said the committee initially didn't push back on FIFA's tailgating rules but that members are trying to negotiate a compromise.
What's next: Boston plans to hold a webinar for the summer grants on Wednesday at 6pm, followed by a business forum on May 4.
- By then, we might know whether the tailgating ban will stick and what other fan events are taking shape.