The U.S. Open Fan Week is returning to New York City, bringing a full week of free, high-energy tennis to the iconic grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens. From Sunday, Aug. 23, to Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, fans will have an unprecedented opportunity to experience the world of professional tennis up close, and this year comes with a small change: everyone must register online for a free fan access pass instead of simply showing up at the gate.
The vibe is electric from the start, with rising stars battling through qualifying and fans getting unbelievably close to the action. Top players drop in for practices on the outer courts and inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, giving visitors rare behind-the-scenes access. The grounds stay busy all day with music, games, sponsor activations, culinary events, and family activities that keep the experience lively from morning through evening. Whether you're a die-hard tennis fan, a foodie on the hunt, or just looking for a fun day in the city, Fan Week has something for everyone.
When and Where Is 2026 U.S. Open Fan Week?
The weeklong event will be held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the home of the U.S. Open, conveniently located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens. All sessions run from Sunday, Aug. 23, to Saturday, Aug. 29, with gates typically opening in the morning and activities continuing into the evening. The venue is accessible by subway (7 train to Mets-Willets Point), Long Island Rail Road, and bus, making it an easy destination for both locals and visitors.
How to Register for the Free Fan Access Pass
Fans must register online for a free fan access pass, which is now required for entry. The registration process takes less than a minute. Adults can sign up, add the pass directly to their phone or mobile wallet, and use it for the entire week. Children under 18 do not need their own pass; they can enter with a registered adult. This streamlined system helps manage capacity and ensures a safer, more organized experience for everyone.
To register, simply visit the official U.S. Open website and follow the prompt for Fan Week passes. You'll need to provide basic contact information and accept the event's terms. Once registered, you'll receive a digital pass with a unique QR code. On site, you'll scan the code at the gate for quick entry. The pass grants access to all free events, including qualifying matches, daily practices, and family zones. For premium events, such as the Federer exhibition and stadium concerts, a separate purchased ticket is required.
How Much Does 2026 U.S. Open Fan Week Cost?
U.S. Open Fan Week is completely free of charge and open to attendees of all ages. That includes entry to the grounds, viewing of all qualifying matches on outer courts, daily player practices, and most family activities. The only exceptions are a few premium events that require purchasing tickets in advance: the Roger Federer exhibition, the Stars of the Open, the mixed doubles championship in the stadium, The Lumineers concert, and Arthur Ashe Kids' Day's Stadium Show. But even these events offer a range of free alternatives on the grounds.
Highlighted Events of the 2026 Fan Week
Here is a breakdown of the highly anticipated events and activities scheduled for the week:
Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York – Tuesday, Aug. 25
For one night only, five-time U.S. Open champion Roger Federer will return to New York for a 7 p.m. exhibition under the lights in Arthur Ashe Stadium. He will be competing alongside 2003 champion Andy Roddick and fellow legends Andre Agassi and John McEnroe. This is a rare opportunity to see four tennis greats sharing the same court. Federer, who retired in 2022, has not played in New York since the 2021 U.S. Open, making this a deeply nostalgic event for fans. Tickets are required to sit in the stadium. The exhibition is expected to feature lighthearted competition, celebrity banter, and the kind of tennis magic that has defined these players' careers.
Arthur Ashe Kids' Day – Sunday, Aug. 23
Fan Week opens with Arthur Ashe Kids' Day, a full-day celebration from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. This annual tradition is designed to introduce children to tennis through fun and interactive programming. Fans can watch player appearances and take part in activities across the grounds, including tennis clinics, games, and art stations. This year's Stadium Show features members of the Savannah Bananas, the wildly popular exhibition baseball team known for their dance routines and family-friendly entertainment, who will take the court from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Stadium Show requires a ticket, but the rest of Kids' Day activities are free with a fan access pass.
Stars of the Open – Thursday, Aug. 27
A fan-favorite exhibition event returns on Thursday evening, featuring top ATP and WTA players in a relaxed, high-energy showcase. This year highlights world No. 25 João Fonseca from Brazil, world No. 30 Alexandra Eala from the Philippines, and American players Learner Tien and Iva Jovic teaming up to compete under the lights at 6 p.m. This event gives fans a chance to see rising stars in a more informal setting, often with playful banter and experimental shot-making. Tickets are required for stadium seating, but the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric.
U.S. Open Qualifying Tournament – Aug. 24–29
The U.S. Open qualifying tournament is always a highlight of Fan Week. Rising stars from around the world compete for precious main-draw spots, with free viewing on all outer courts. Qualifying matches are often intense and emotional, as players fight for their breakthroughs. From the first day, you'll see future champions before they become household names. In recent years, several winners of the main draw have come through qualifying, underscoring the importance of this stage. Free but fans must register for a fan access pass.
Mixed Doubles Championship Qualifying – Monday, Aug. 24
On Monday, teams compete in the Grandstand for a spot in the main draw of the U.S. Open Mixed Doubles Championship. This is a free event to attend, offering an intimate look at the strategy and teamwork required in doubles play. The qualifying matches are often just as dramatic as the main draw, with sharp volleys and quick reactions. Free but fans must register for a fan access pass.
U.S. Open Mixed Doubles Championship – Tuesday, Aug. 25 & Wednesday, Aug. 26
For the second time, the U.S. Open will feature an expanded mixed doubles 16-team competition with fan-favorite teams and special programming tied to the championship. This year's highlighted teams include Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic, Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz, and Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud. The inclusion of singles superstars has injected new excitement into the doubles format, drawing huge crowds and generating buzz across social media. A full list of participants can be found on the official U.S. Open website. Fans must purchase tickets to sit in the stadium for these sessions, which promise spectacular shot-making and unique team chemistry.
The Lumineers Concert – Friday, Aug. 21
Wait—mark your calendars a bit earlier this year. The Grammy-nominated folk-rock band The Lumineers opens with a special live concert in Louis Armstrong Stadium at 8 p.m. (rain or shine) on Friday, Aug. 21, which is actually two days before the official start of Fan Week. This concert serves as a prelude to the tennis festivities, setting a festive atmosphere. Fans must purchase tickets to sit in the stadium. Known for hits like "Ho Hey" and "Ophelia," The Lumineers bring a sing-along energy that is perfect for a summer evening in New York, but be mindful that this event requires a separate ticket and is not part of the free offerings.
Daily Player Practices
Top players practice throughout the week, including featured sessions inside Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium. There is no schedule released in advance, so it's advisable to check the on-site boards and social media for the latest practice times. Practice sessions offer a unique opportunity to see players' preparation routines, coach-player interactions, and a more relaxed side of the pros. Many fans bring autograph books and banners, hoping to catch a moment or a signature after the session. Free but fans must register for a fan access pass.
Family Festival of Activities
Throughout the week, the grounds are transformed into a family-friendly festival. Face painting, balloon artists, storytelling, roving entertainers, and kid-friendly programming are available across the grounds. There will also be live music, DJs, and entertainment at the Fountain Plaza stage scheduled throughout the week. Food courts feature a diverse array of culinary options, from classic New York hot dogs to gourmet offerings. Sponsor activations often include interactive games, photo opportunities, and giveaways. All of these are free with a fan access pass, making Fan Week one of the most affordable family outings in New York City.
Who Is Performing at the U.S. Open Afterparty?
While not officially part of Fan Week, the U.S. Open afterparty concert has become a highly anticipated event. Award-winning artist Zedd will headline the third annual concert on Saturday, Sept. 12, slated to begin at 9 p.m. Zedd, the Russian-German DJ and producer, is known for electronic dance hits like "Clarity," "Stay," and "The Middle." The concert is a separate ticketed event held near the end of the U.S. Open tournament. Please note this is not a Fan Week event, but tickets can be purchased through the official U.S. Open website. It offers a perfect capstone for a thrilling two weeks of tennis.
U.S. Open Fan Week has evolved into a unique New York summer tradition. The combination of free tennis, family fun, music, and the chance to see legends like Roger Federer makes it an unmissable experience. Whether you're a seasoned tennis enthusiast or a first-time visitor to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the week promises unforgettable memories—and all it starts with is a simple online registration.
Source: MSN News