Imagine watching the year’s final Manhattanhenge from the middle of a Manhattan street—without a single car in sight. That’s exactly what’s happening on Saturday, July 11, when the American Museum of Natural History shuts down 79th Street between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues for a massive free block party celebrating New York City culture, neighborhood games, and the FIFA World Cup 2026.
From live salsa music and Double Dutch to chess with Chess in the Schools, board games, World Cup screenings, and the year’s final Manhattanhenge, the one-day event will transform the street outside one of NYC’s most iconic museums into an all-day outdoor celebration.
👀 What to expect at AMNH’s From Stoops to Stadiums block party
Inspired by the sports and games that define New York City’s neighborhoods, From Stoops to Stadiums: How New Yorkers Play celebrates everything from pickup soccer and Double Dutch to chess and classic board games while exploring how extreme heat and sunlight affect play, performance, and public spaces around the world.
Here’s what you’ll find at the event:
- 🌇 Manhattanhenge viewing: The celebration ends with a communal viewing of the final Manhattanhenge of 2026 as the setting sun perfectly aligns with Manhattan’s street grid along 79th Street
- ⚽ World Cup watch parties: Watch select FIFA World Cup 2026 matches on big screens inside the museum’s LeFrak Theater, Cullman Hall of the Universe, and Global Sports Pavilion in the Futter Gallery (included with museum admission)
- 🪢 Double Dutch: Watch Brooklyn’s Jazzy Jumpers bring one of New York City’s most iconic playground traditions to life
- ♟️ Chess & neighborhood games: Play chess with Chess in the Schools, try classic board games, and take part in activities inspired by the five boroughs
- 🎶 Live music: The Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra will perform live as golden hour takes over the Upper West Side before Manhattanhenge begins
💡 Pro tip
Planning to catch Manhattanhenge? Arrive well before sunset (8:28 pm)—the viewing is expected to be one of the busiest parts of the event…