The countdown is on! In just two short years, Seattle’s Stadium District will take center stage for one of the most anticipated global events—the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As the world’s greatest soccer tournament lands on American soil, Seattle will have the incredible honor of hosting matches in its vibrant Stadium District, showcasing the city’s electric energy, cultural richness, and passionate soccer fan base.
If you’re a Seattleite, you’re about to experience the thrill of being part of a city playing a vital role in this international spectacle. And if you’re visiting, you’re in for an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful regions of the world.
Here’s a breakdown of why we can’t wait for 2026 and how the entire Pacific Northwest will play its part in welcoming fans from across the globe!
Seattle’s Stadium District: A Hub of Energy and Excitement
At the heart of Seattle’s World Cup hosting efforts is the Stadium District, where matches will be held at the iconic Lumen Field, home to the Seattle Sounders and Seattle Seahawks. This bustling area, just steps from Pioneer Square, will be the epicenter of World Cup action, bringing together soccer fans from every corner of the globe.
With four group stage matches and two knockout matches on the schedule, the Stadium District will buzz with activity, turning into a sea of national colors, chants, and celebrations. You can already feel the excitement in the air as we prepare to welcome thousands of fans to our city!
Here are the Seattle match dates you won’t want to miss:
2026 World Cup Group Stage Matches in Seattle:
- Monday, June 15, 2026
- Friday, June 19, 2026
- Wednesday, June 24, 2026
- Friday, June 26, 2026
Knockout Matches in Seattle:
- Round of 32: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
- Round of 16: Monday, July 6, 2026
Beyond the Stadium: Seattle’s Vibrant Soccer Culture
Seattle’s love for soccer runs deep, and the Stadium District will be just the starting point for a city-wide celebration. From Pioneer Square to Capitol Hill, local businesses, restaurants, and bars are preparing to welcome fans and throw World Cup-themed events. Seattleites are known for their passion, and our community is already buzzing with anticipation. Expect public viewing parties, pop-up soccer events, and local cultural festivals that will make every match day feel like a city-wide holiday.
While the matches will unfold on the field, the excitement will spill into every corner of the city. Whether you’re grabbing a drink at one of Pioneer Square’s lively pubs or watching the games at a public screening you’ll feel the pulse of the World Cup throughout Seattle.
Pacific Northwest Host Communities: Vancouver and Beyond
While Seattle will be a key host city, the Pacific Northwest as a whole will play a significant role in the 2026 World Cup. Just north of the border, Vancouver, B.C. will also be hosting matches at the famous B.C. Place Stadium, making the region one of the few places in the world where you can experience multiple host cities within driving distance.
Fans in Seattle will have the incredible opportunity to catch even more World Cup action by simply heading up to Vancouver, where seven matches will be held, including group stage games and knockout rounds. Here are Vancouver’s key dates for your calendar:
2026 World Cup Group Stage Matches in Vancouver:
- Saturday, June 13, 2026
- Thursday, June 18, 2026
- Sunday, June 21, 2026
- Wednesday, June 24, 2026
- Friday, June 26, 2026
Knockout Matches in Vancouver:
- Round of 32: Thursday, July 2, 2026
- Round of 16: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
A Global Celebration with Local Flavor
From Seattle to Vancouver, the 2026 World Cup will highlight the rich diversity of the Pacific Northwest, not only in its soccer fandom but also in its culture, food, and local attractions. Fans traveling to the region will have the chance to explore everything from Seattle’s vibrant Pioneer Square and waterfront to Vancouver’s stunning mountains and urban landscapes.
Seattle’s art scene, in particular, will play a major role in celebrating the event. As the city transforms itself into a global stage, expect to see cultural activations like public art installations, music events, and food festivals that reflect the diverse communities who call Seattle home. Pioneer Square will be buzzing with pre-game excitement, showcasing local artists, musicians, and makers in the weeks leading up to the event.
Uniting Fans Across the World
While Seattle and Vancouver are key players in the Pacific Northwest’s hosting duties, the 2026 World Cup will be a celebration that extends beyond any single neighborhood or city. From Portland to Tacoma, from the San Juan Islands to the Olympic Peninsula, communities across the region are getting involved in World Cup fever. It’s not just about soccer; it’s about bringing together fans, cultures, and traditions from around the world.
The beauty of the Pacific Northwest will be on full display for the world to see, and there’s no better way to experience the thrill of the World Cup than by being in this region. Whether you’re attending matches in Seattle, road-tripping to Vancouver, or exploring the local events happening in nearby cities, you’ll feel the contagious excitement that only the World Cup can bring.
Plan Your World Cup Experience Now
If you’re a local, now’s the time to start thinking about how you’ll get involved. Whether you’re volunteering, attending matches, or simply planning to celebrate with friends and family, the 2026 World Cup will be an unforgettable experience for all of Seattle.
And if you’re planning to visit, start making your travel plans early! With Seattle and Vancouver both serving as host cities, the Pacific Northwest will be one of the best places in the world to soak in the World Cup atmosphere. Whether you’re attending a game at Lumen Field or taking a scenic drive up to B.C. Place Stadium, your World Cup adventure is just around the corner.
Seattle is more than ready to embrace its role as a World Cup host, and we can’t wait to show the world everything our city and region have to offer. See you in 2026!