Spring Valley to host FIFA World Cup watch party
The village invites everyone to enjoy food trucks, big‑screen matches and a celebration of community culture during their watch party at Memorial Park on Saturday.
The excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup is growing in Spring Valley as the village prepares to host an hourslong watch party this Saturday at Memorial Park.
Benjamin Alexandre, of Spring Valley, said the event captures the spirit of the tournament.
“The World Cup is very exciting. Everybody. All the countries come together to celebrate football," he says.
Jean, of Haverstraw, added, “I think it's something for people to enjoy.”
Village officials plan to set up a large screen and bring in several food trucks for attendees. The event begins at 2 p.m., with one of the featured matches being Haiti vs. Scotland. Additional aired games scheduled for the day include Qatar vs. Switzerland at 3 p.m. and Brazil vs. Morocco at 6 p.m.
While Spring Valley is home to a large Haitian community, organizers emphasize that the celebration is open to everyone.
“We are one community but 37 cultures. We want folks to come out, enjoy the wonderful weather," said Mayor Schenley Vital.
Pastor Juan Pablo Ramirez described the day as an opportunity to bring people together.
“Soccer brings all nations, all walks of life together. And Saturday is just a celebration of diversity. Cultures. Countries," Ramirez said.
Community leaders, including members of local cultural organizations, have been spreading the word.
For some people, the matches carry deep personal meaning. Jean shared his hopes for Haiti’s success.
“For my Haitian community. And I wish my country wins this World Cup right now and I really want that. We want it because the way our country is right now, we need some victory to make us happy," said Jean.
Spring Valley police say officers will be present to help ensure the event runs safely and smoothly.
