Shortly after declaring himself to be in “party mode” for the duration of the World Cup, Nuevo León Governor Samuel García proved that he meant it Sunday by announcing that free beer, soft drinks and carne asada will be offered at the World Cup’s Fan Fest in Monterrey, the state capital.
The announcement came during his speech at the Mega Northern Cavalcade, an event billed as a showcase of the traditions and culture of northeastern Mexico for the foreign teams and fans visiting the region for the World Cup.
Que chulada la Selección de Japón con sombrero 🤠🤠🤠
Bienvenidos al Mundial más Norteño
NUEVO LEÓN. 🇯🇵🇲🇽🦁⚽️ pic.twitter.com/hKevhhCVsg— Samuel García (@samuel_garcias) June 3, 2026
Since Monterrey was announced as a host city, García has constantly referred to the tournament as “el mundial más norteño” (the most Northern World Cup), referring to his and other northern states’ culture of norteño music, carne asada, horseback riding and a distinctive way of speaking.
Using an informal tone, García said that even though his government has promoted the Fan Fest as an event for visitors, it is actually intended primarily for the people of Nuevo León.
“We say that this event is for those who come from abroad, but that’s not true. That’s what we say in Japan,” he said, perhaps referring to his recent business trip to Asia. “This is for you. So bring your family, and have a spectacular summer.”
FIFA’s Fan Fest at the Parque Fundidora in Monterrey from June 11 through July 19 will feature performances by local, national and international artists, including Chayanne (Jun 13), Imagine Dragons (Jun 21), Grupo Firme (Jun 24), and Enrique Iglesias (Jun 28).
Alongside these shows, the festival will feature a “Live Stage,” presenting more than 40 performances throughout the 34 days of activities, as well as giant screens showing every World Cup match live, in addition to hospitality areas and interactive play areas.
Besides the free beer, the Monterrey Fan Fest is the only one that sells alcoholic beverages to attendees. Alcohol consumption is banned at all the others.
With reports from Telediario and Milenio
