Knicks to host NBA Finals Game 1 watch parties outdoors after city reissues permit

Key Points:

• The New York Street Activity Permit Office has lifted its ban on outdoor watch parties around Madison Square Garden, allowing the Knicks to host a permitted outdoor gathering at Plaza 33 for Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs.
• The ban was initially imposed after six fans were arrested during a chaotic watch party following the Knicks' May 21 win in the Eastern Conference finals, where an estimated 6,000 fans caused disruptions including blocking traffic and throwing bottles.
• New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed strong support for safe and accessible watch parties across the city, confirming plans for both indoor and outdoor celebrations, including events inside Madison Square Garden and a separate free watch party at Central Park’s SummerStage.
• The Knicks are hosting an in-arena watch party featuring alumni appearances to benefit the Garden of Dreams Foundation, while the outdoor Central Park event can accommodate up to 5,000 fans.
• The future of outdoor watch parties outside Madison Square Garden for the remainder of the NBA Finals remains uncertain amid concerns from the NYPD about crowd control and safety.