Super Bowl LX Brings Bay Area Celebration to Global Stage

From hometown fans to worldwide performers, the big game showcases the region's spirit.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Bay Area hosted Super Bowl LX, marking the first time in a decade the region welcomed the NFL's championship game. Fans from across the country, including die-hard supporters of the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks, descended on Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara to take part in the festivities. The event capped years of investment in the venue and regional infrastructure, serving as a global dress rehearsal ahead of upcoming World Cup matches. Despite political tensions in the lead-up, the focus remained on the game itself, with the festive mood contrasting the defense-heavy action on the field.

Why it matters

The return of the Super Bowl to the Bay Area was a milestone moment, showcasing the region's ability to host major sporting events. It highlighted the investments made in Levi's Stadium and the surrounding infrastructure, positioning the area as a global sports destination. The event also provided an opportunity for local talent and community members to be part of the spectacle, from performers to youth captains participating in the coin toss.

The details

Fans from across the country, including die-hard supporters of the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks, descended on Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara to take part in the Super Bowl LX festivities. The event capped years of investment in the venue and regional infrastructure, serving as a global dress rehearsal ahead of upcoming World Cup matches. Despite political tensions in the lead-up, the focus remained on the game itself, with the festive mood contrasting the defense-heavy action on the field.

  • The Super Bowl LX was held on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • Levi's Stadium last hosted the NFL's championship game in 2016.

The players

Tal Winder

A die-hard New England Patriots fan from Lathrop who spent $4,900 on tickets to attend the Super Bowl in his backyard.

Derek Fant

A Seattle Seahawks fan who was impressed by the South Bay's ability to represent the NFL during the Super Bowl week.

Veronica Miranda-Pinkney

A San Jose resident and daughter of immigrants who was a fan of halftime performer Bad Bunny and believed his performance represented the Latino community.

Inoke Tonga

A 35-year-old fan who, along with his sister Siesia, showed up to the Super Bowl in 18th-century attire to support their brother Khyiris Tonga, a defensive tackle for the New England Patriots.

Scott Weber

A San Jose resident who worked as an usher at the Super Bowl, which fell on his 60th birthday, the same year as the NFL's 60th Super Bowl.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Having your team in your backyard, this is something I had to do.”

— Tal Winder (San Francisco Chronicle)

“It shows your caliber of people or community and how you can represent the NFL.”

— Derek Fant (Instagram)

“This means the world to people and I think he's going to shine tonight. He's going to show that Latino people are here to stay.”

— Veronica Miranda-Pinkney (San Jose Mercury News)

What’s next

The Bay Area will host six World Cup matches at Levi's Stadium later in 2026, building on the success of hosting Super Bowl LX.

The takeaway

The Super Bowl's return to the Bay Area showcased the region's ability to host major sporting events, from the investments made in Levi's Stadium to the community's enthusiasm and spirit. It served as a global platform to highlight the diversity and vibrancy of the local area, setting the stage for future high-profile events like the World Cup.