Seattle Gears Up for World Cup with Citywide Celebrations

Local organizers plan to expand fan zones across the city to make the global event accessible to all.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Seattle is preparing to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup with plans to create citywide fan zones and celebrations that will allow everyone in the region to be part of the global event, even without match tickets. The local organizing committee announced the expansion of fan experiences beyond Lumen Field and the original Seattle Center site, with free zones popping up in locations like Pacific Place, Waterfront Park, and Victory Hall near the stadium.

Why it matters

Hosting the World Cup is a major opportunity for Seattle to showcase its vibrant neighborhoods and community spirit to an international audience. The expanded fan zones aim to make the global event accessible and inclusive for local residents and visitors alike.

The details

The fan zones will feature live match watch parties, food vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities to capture the World Cup atmosphere. Organizers say the goal is to highlight the 'richness and breadth' of Seattle's different neighborhoods, not just provide a place to watch the games.

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11.
  • Seattle organizers plan to add more fan celebrations across the city in the coming months, including in the Chinatown-International District and the Central District.

The players

Peter Tomozawa

CEO of SeattleFWC26, the local World Cup organizing committee.

Zack Thompson

A Seattle sports fan who is excited to be part of the World Cup celebrations.

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What they’re saying

“We're a city built for this. We're a city built for championships. We're a city built for big-time events.”

— Peter Tomozawa, CEO of SeattleFWC26 (king5.com)

“This is just so cool. The World Cup is the biggest tournament in the world, and I definitely want to be a part of it.”

— Zack Thompson, Seattle sports fan (king5.com)

What’s next

Organizers plan to add more fan celebrations across Seattle in the coming months, including in the Chinatown-International District and the Central District.

The takeaway

Seattle's plans to expand World Cup fan zones across the city demonstrate the community's enthusiasm for hosting the global event and desire to make it accessible to all. This inclusive approach aligns with the city's reputation for big-time sports and events, showcasing its vibrant neighborhoods and community spirit to an international audience.