“From coastal resiliency and sustainable green practices to the preservation of affordable housing, world-class public art, and vibrant, year-round programming in award-winning public spaces, Battery Park City leads the way in many of the measures that makes cities livable."

Raju Mann

President & CEO
  • 06/22/26
  • Art & Culture
  • BPC People
  • Community

BIG SCREEN AT THE BATTERY BRINGS FREE WORLD CUP WATCH PARTIES, OUTDOOR MOVIES, AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT TO LOWER MANHATTAN

From July 4-19, the free series will feature FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, semifinal, and final watch parties, outdoor films, performances, family activities, and special events on the New York Harbor

This summer, as New York welcomes the world for the FIFA World Cup and a season of historic celebrations, The Battery Conservancy and Battery Park City Authority will present Big Screen at The Battery, a new free outdoor series that brings sports, film, music, history, and community together on New York City’s most iconic waterfront. 

From July 4 through July 19, The Battery’s waterfront lawn will become a gathering place for New Yorkers and visitors alike, hosting FIFA World Cup watch parties, outdoor movie nights, live performances, family programming, and special events overlooking New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. The two-week series celebrates the power of gathering in public space, inviting people from around the world to experience unforgettable moments together in the heart of Lower Manhattan. 

“Public parks have always been where cities come together,” said Paula Recart, President of The Battery Conservancy. “Whether we’re cheering for a match, watching a classic New York film, or simply sitting on the lawn with neighbors and strangers alike, these shared experiences remind us that public space isn’t just where we pass through – it’s where community comes to life. We hope Big Screen at The Battery becomes a place where New Yorkers and visitors alike create memories together during one of the most exciting summers in our city’s history.” 

Over the course of the series, Big Screen at The Battery will feature: 

● Live broadcasts of FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, semifinal, and final matches

● Outdoor movie nights 

● Live performances 

● Family activities and community programming 

● Conversations exploring New York’s history and culture 

● Food and beverage vendors overlooking New York Harbor 

Highlights include a special outdoor screening of On the Town on July 8, presented in partnership with Downtown Alliance and Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC), celebrating one of New York’s most beloved musicals as New York Harbor comes alive with America’s 250th anniversary festivities. 

The series will also feature the world premiere of By George, a new documentary directed by H. Paul Moon marking the 250th anniversary of the toppling of King George III’s statue at nearby Bowling Green, followed by a conversation with the filmmakers and historians. It will be screened on July 9, the exact day when the statue was taken down 250 years ago. 

Raju Mann, President and CEO of Battery Park City Authority, said: 

“There’s no better place to be than New York City in the summer, and Lower Manhattan is doing its part to make the season count. Big Screen at The Battery will bring New Yorkers together to enjoy the outdoors with free events from FIFA World Cup  screenings to movie nights under the stars. We are thrilled to be partnering with The Battery Conservancy on this exciting series that will transform the neighborhood into a hub for fun and culture this season.” 

Brian Steinwurtzel, CEO of GFP Development, said:

“Lower Manhattan continues to evolve as a destination not only for work, but for culture, recreation and community life. Big Screen at The Battery is the kind of programming that helps make downtown more vibrant and inviting, while giving New Yorkers and visitors a unique way to experience the waterfront. We’re proud to support an event that showcases the energy and appeal of this neighborhood  during such an exciting summer for the city.”

Big Screen at The Battery is presented by The Battery Conservancy and Battery Park City Authority, with lead support from GFP Real Estate, Soma and WREY, and additional support from Downtown Alliance, Hornblower, and Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC).

All events are free and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and enjoy the waterfront in a relaxed, picnic-style setting. Registration is recommended for select events. 

For the full schedule and to register, visit: www.thebattery.org/bigscreen.

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