Soccer fans will have a chance to experience the excitement of the FIFA World Cup right here on Long Island.

A free World Cup watch party is coming to LaValle Stadium at Stony Brook University next Friday for the tournament’s opening match.

Organizers say the event will transform the stadium into a World Cup-style atmosphere, complete with live music from Third Eye Blind, youth soccer activities, food vendors and multiple video screens throughout the venue.

“This is a great place to come view the biggest sporting event in the world,” said Travis Lamprecht, president of business operations for Island FC.

State officials say the event is designed to give fans a stadium experience even if they don’t have tickets to the World Cup.

“We are excited to activate this entire stadium so that folks that don’t have tickets to the World Cup can actually come and enjoy it in a stadium setting," said Justin Brannan, New York state’s senior director of major event operations. "It is going to feel like you’re there."

Admission is free, but fans are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance.

For tickets and additional information, click here: https://www.newyorkstateunited.com/