One of the greatest spectacles in global sports, the FIFA World Cup brings the world’s top soccer players together to compete for their country’s right to hoist the trophy.
This year, the United States will not only host FIFA World Cup matches but also reach a historic milestone. On July 4, the nation will celebrate 250 years of independence.
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence—will also host World Cup matches. In anticipation of a busy year, Governor Josh Shapiro signed a sweeping bipartisan bill into law.
Shapiro signed the bill on Saturday, officially allowing restaurants and bars to remain open until 4 a.m. While businesses are not required to extend their hours, the law creates new opportunities for Philadelphia establishments.
The law also permits businesses to serve alcohol until 4 a.m., extending the previous cutoff time of around 1 a.m.
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City officials expect a surge in activity driven by both Independence Day celebrations and an influx of visitors. Philadelphia is scheduled to host its first match between Haiti and Brazil on June 14.
The final match in the city is set for June 25. Strong economic returns are likely, with significant gains expected to appear in state treasury reports after the events conclude.
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July 4 will follow shortly after Philadelphia’s final World Cup match, bringing another wave of celebration and economic momentum for local businesses.
Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles with a seating capacity of more than 69,000, will host all four World Cup matches in the city.
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Other major U.S. cities set to host matches include New York, Boston, Atlanta, Miami, and several others across the western United States.
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