Kudus Residents Crowd Simpang Tujuh Square for 2026 World Cup Public Screening

KUDUS – Thousands of residents packed the Simpang Tujuh Kudus square on Friday evening (June 12) to attend a public screening of the 2026 World Cup. The event, a collaboration between the Kudus Regency Government, TVRI, and supported by PT Sukun Wartono Indonesia, marked the first time the regency has held an open-air public viewing for the tournament.

The event provided official, free-to-air match coverage in a public space. Beyond entertainment, organizers hope the initiative will foster social interaction, revitalize public venues, and provide a boost to local micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

TVRI Central Java Station Head Sanny April Linda Damanik expressed her gratitude to the Kudus Regency Government for its support. She stated that the partnership allows the public to enjoy matches legally and in compliance with current regulations.

“We thank the Kudus Regency Government for facilitating a public space for Bola Gembira. As a national unifying media outlet, TVRI is committed to supporting official public screenings by providing free access to licensed broadcasts, ensuring the public can enjoy the matches safely and in accordance with guidelines,” Sanny said.

She added that the collaboration between TVRI, the Kudus Regency Government, and PT Sukun Wartono serves as a model for synergy in providing entertainment to the community while strengthening social cohesion.

“We hope this cooperation continues and inspires other regions. Through Bola Gembira, we are not just watching football; we are creating a positive space for community interaction as we build collective excitement toward the World Cup,” she added.

The Kudus Regency Government hopes that utilizing public spaces in this manner will foster gathering, promote sportsmanship, strengthen social solidarity, and stimulate local economic growth through the participation of MSMEs.

Crowds began arriving downtown early in the evening for the opening festivities. In addition to the match broadcasts, organizers provided musical performances and other engaging activities.

The Simpang Tujuh square was bustling with residents from all walks of life. The event drew not only adults but also families with children gathered to enjoy the festivities.

Various amusement rides around the venue have become an added draw for visitors, enhancing the festive atmosphere and providing family entertainment options for those attending the screening.

In addition, rows of micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) booths have further enlivened the event as part of the side activities organized in conjunction with the screening. Attendees can enjoy a variety of local culinary delights and products throughout the event.

The high turnout highlights the vibrant public activity in downtown Kudus, which frequently hosts community events. The 2026 World Cup public viewing event has become a popular weekend entertainment option for residents spending time with family and friends.

One visitor, Rika Nadila, 25, from Mejobo village, said she had no initial plans to attend. While passing the Simpang Tujuh town square with three friends, she decided to stop and join the opening festivities.

"I didn't realize Kudus was this lively; the city never gets tired of creating events that bring joy to the community," Rika said.

She noted that similar activities should continue in the future, as they provide accessible entertainment for all members of the public.

Although she does not closely follow soccer, Rika said she was well aware of the World Cup atmosphere through social media. She praised the downtown event for offering more than just sports, citing the diverse supporting activities that keep the public entertained.

"It’s fun—there are games, MSME booths, and even free health checkups. If you’re hungry, you can buy food at the stalls. Kudus is truly lively, and I hope future events will be even better," she added.

Irfan, 30, a resident of Japan village in Colo, shared her enthusiasm. He attended the 2026 World Cup public screening at the Simpang Tujuh square with his wife and child.

Even though the main match was scheduled for 2:00 a.m. local time, Irfan arrived early in the evening to enjoy the atmosphere with other residents.

"This event is great. I hope they plan similar screenings for other tournaments, like the Asian Cup," he said.

The match between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina served as the main attraction for the viewing party, with Irfan noting that he was rooting for team Canada.

He noted that the public viewing events are expected to remain a major draw, particularly as popular teams take the pitch in future matches.

“If possible, we should hold these daily until the final, to sustain public enthusiasm, given how many people in Kudus are passionate about football,” he said.

Kudus Regent Sam’ani Intakoris, who attended the opening ceremony, expressed his appreciation to all stakeholders involved in the event. He credited the collaborative support from private companies and national television networks for providing accessible entertainment to the local community.

Sam’ani stated that these screenings serve as more than just entertainment; they foster a positive atmosphere for the public.

“We want the public to be happy, for children to play safely, and for us all to remain resilient in the face of economic uncertainty,” Sam’ani remarked.

He further explained that hosting the 2026 World Cup viewings is part of an initiative to introduce the concept of sports tourism to the people of Kudus.

He expressed hope that the events would spark greater interest in athletics, particularly football, while boosting support for Indonesian sports development.

“Praise be to God, today we launched the World Cup watch party, providing both education and entertainment for the community,” he said.

Sam’ani also highlighted the various side events held during the festivities. The inclusion of MSME stalls, live music, game rides, and other activities has had a positive impact on the local economy.

The participation of MSME vendors offers business opportunities and drives local economic activity, while residents enjoy accessible recreational space to gather with families.

The 2026 World Cup match between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina, held Saturday (June 13) at 2:00 a.m. local time, served as the centerpiece for the public screening event at Simpang Tujuh Kudus square.

The Kudus Regency Government plans to expand similar programming in the future. Proposed measures include partnering with the Kudus Police to host watch parties at police sector headquarters (Mapolsek) across all districts.

The initiative is designed to broaden public access to collective football match viewing without the need to travel to the city center.

According to Sam’ani, sports-based events offer multidimensional benefits, serving as both public entertainment and a catalyst for regional economic growth. The sports tourism framework is expected to bolster the economy while providing a platform for social interaction among residents.

Furthermore, these activities are viewed as a tool to cultivate a sporting culture within the community. Increased public participation in athletic events is expected to bolster support for the sports industry, particularly football.

“This event can stimulate the economy, entertain the public, and promote a culture of sports in Kudus,” he added.

The public viewing event for the 2026 World Cup in Kudus drew thousands of residents to the Simpang Tujuh Square, creating a festive atmosphere. The high level of public enthusiasm, participation from MSMEs, and active involvement of various stakeholders underscore the strong local interest in sports events packaged as public entertainment and communal gathering spaces. (hsym/mkk)