2026 World Cup, America250 & more: Busy summer is a stress test and an opportunity

Massachusetts tourism and political leaders have plenty to cheer about in 2026.

“This year for tourism is going to be huge,” said Marykay Wydra with Explore Western Mass.

“It’s going to be an incredible summer,” said Martha Sheridan with MeetBoston.

Millions of visitors are expected over the next few months as the Bay State prepares to host seven 2026 World Cup matches, America 250 celebrations and normal summer tourism.

But while Boston and Foxborough will be the epicenters of activity, Gov. Maura Healey says it’s critical that the rest of the state is able to reap some of the economic benefits.

“The state is going to help, private organizations are going to help, companies are going to help,” said Gov. Healey.

The statewide push is aided in part by $10 million in state grants.

“We wanted to make sure there was money there for communities to host watch parties during the World Cup event,” Healey said.

“With more we can do more,” said Wydra.

“Any funding where we can help add a special angle to that, this being the World Cup, is helpful,” said Jessye Deane with the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce.

Beyond those broader goals, Massachusetts will get a preview of how the World Cup matches will play out this week as France and Brazil play an international friendly match at Gillette Stadium.

“From an operational perspective, from a security and transportation perspective. It does give us a good opportunity to test some things out,” said Healey.

“It’s a 4 p.m. match so it mirrors time slots for the World Cup, we’ll test out train routes on Thursday,” said Sheridan.

It’s an early challenge for the Commonwealth as it looks to come away with an economic win.

As a reminder, the first World Cup match will be held on June 13 between Haiti and Scotland.