It’s hard to miss the growing buzz around FIFA World Cup 2026, especially when Seattle is hosting six of the 104 North American matches. To celebrate, the Port of Olympia is hosting the Olympia–Lacey Fan Zone for the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce and its partners.
From downtown’s gorgeous waterfront, fans will join to watch four live match screenings. They can also enjoy local vendors, food and beverage providers and mingle with the community. There’s even a VIP Experience which includes priority entry, beverages, snacks, a designated area and swag bag full of goodies. Get your tickets now and come ready to cheer for your global and home-team favorites.
FIFA Fan Zone Takes Downtown Olympia’s Port Plaza by Storm
Alex Smith, executive director of the Port of Olympia, says that the Port “is fortunate to manage some amazing waterfront spaces and we always love to have community groups use them or events that draw crowds to the beautiful downtown waterfront. Holding the event at the Port Plaza gives non-soccer folks beautiful views of the waterfront, and proximity to downtown businesses, the Farmers Market and the Hands On Children’s Museum.”
The FIFA Fan Zone will be open during four matches. Tickets are available for USA vs Australia on Friday, June 19, Canada vs Switzerland on Wednesday, June 24, USA vs Türkiye on Thursday, June 25, and Span vs Uruguay and Egypt vs Iran on Friday, June 26. That day will also host a Pride Celebration for those wanting to really kick up their heels and party.
If you’re able to help, organizers are still seeking volunteers. Simply fill out the volunteer form to get started. Potential business partners who’d like to be involved as vendors, should reach out to jennie@jfjstrategies.com to learn more. Spaces are filling up quickly so don’t delay.
Everyone is Welcome to Enjoy All-Ages Family Football Fun in the FIFA Fan Zone
Die-hards and fair-weather fans alike will enjoy festive Fan Zone activities during each game. “The matches will be shown on giant outdoor screens with professional audio throughout the Fan Zone,” says Jennie Foglia-Jones for the Chamber. “Organizers are planning a festival-style environment with viewing areas, gathering spaces and entertainment throughout the venue. Food vendors such as Anthony’s Homeport, Little Creek Casino and Fisher Scones will be available onsite, but outside food and picnic items are also welcome.”
More than just the games, the Fan Zone will host music, DJs, live bands, interactive games, soccer-themed activities, a beer garden, community booths, sponsor activations, and a full-day entertainment experience. Look for halftime contests, waterfront gathering spaces, giveaways and family-friendly fun.
Advance online ticket purchase is encouraged because attendance capacity is limited for each event date. Excess tickets will be sold onsite for same day entry if individual matches aren’t sold out.
“One of the most exciting aspects of the Olympia-Lacey Fan Zone is that it gives local residents an opportunity to experience the energy and international spirit of the FIFA World Cup close to home,” says Foglia-Jones. “Organizers hope the event creates a memorable regional celebration that brings together sports fans, families, local businesses, visitors, and the broader community in a welcoming waterfront environment.”
Get in on the Match Action Before Individual Day Tickets Sell Out
You can follow the Fan Zone through their website or on Facebook and Instagram. Organizers will post updates about newly added vendors, entertainment and experiences as they’re finalized.
Fan Zone attendees are encouraged to carpool or arrive by bus, as parking is limited. Folding chairs, alcohol-free picnics and warm blankets are both welcomed and encouraged. This is a cashless event, except for tipping your hardworking bartender, so plan accordingly. Guests will pass through security measures on arrival and with re-entry and the show will go on, rain or shine.
Youth 12 and under can attend for free while general admission for 13+ is just $10 per match. VIP Experience tickets are available for $75 each.
While you’re reading up on the event, check out a full calendar of Summer Events at the Port. This includes Movies at the Marina and Summer Nights at the Port for live music. Away from the waterfront you’ll find the arrival of the Shoestring Circus, the Olympic Air Show, Summer Splash!, Capital City Pride, the Olympia Dragon Boat Festival, Music in the Park, the South Sound Block Party, Olympia Harbor Days and even Oly on Ice.
To go behind the scenes of Olympia’s working waterfront, email Tours@PortOlympia.com to sign up for one of their monthly Summer 2026 Port Public Tours. You can also follow the Port on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to learn more.
FIFA World Cup 2026 is estimated to bring in more than 5 million spectators across all 104 matches. If you didn’t manage to grab one of the few Seattle seats available—or didn’t want to pay exorbitant secondhand prices—head downtown and celebrate with friends, family and fellow fans in the ultimate waterfront Fan Zone.
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