Olympia’s 2026 World Cup soccer fan zone is on the move. Here’s what to know
An interactive fan zone for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup will now occupy Port Plaza on the Olympia waterfront.
Organizers planned to host the fan zone at a Port of Olympia property on the very north end of the port peninsula, The Olympian previously reported.
The move to Port Plaza is intended to “make the site more accessible and connected” to downtown Olympia, according to Port of Olympia meeting documents. On Monday, the Port unanimously approved an interlocal agreement with local jurisdictions to plan and manage the “Olympia/Lacey Fan Zone.” The multi-day event will include a main viewing area with large LED screens, live entertainment, food and beverage vendors and interactive activities.
Canada, Mexico and the United States are hosting the Men’s World Cup this year, and several games are expected to occur in Seattle. Fans who can’t make it to the games in person can gather at one of many fan zones spread across the state, including the one in Olympia.
Organizers planned to screen the following games at the Olympia/Lacey Fan Zone at Port Plaza:
- USA vs. Australia on Friday, June 19.
- Qatar vs. To Be Determined (TBD) on Wednesday, June 24.
- USA vs. TBD on June 25.
- Egypt vs. Iran on June 26.
However, Iran’s participation in the last game is in doubt. Earlier this month, Iran’s sport minister announced the country will not play in the Men’s World Cup amid the United States and Israel’s war with the country, The Seattle Times reported.
Even before the war, Egypt and Iran complained to FIFA about the June 26 Seattle match because local organizers are planning to celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride, ESPN reported. June is Pride Month in the U.S., and Seattle PrideFest is scheduled for June 27-28.
The event schedule for the Olympia/Lacey Fan Zone indicates a Pride Celebration is planned for the June 26 event.
Jennie Foglia-Jones of JFJ Strategies is helping the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce organize the local event. About 2,500 to 5,000 fans are expected to attend, according to a presentation Foglia-Jones shared with Thurston County.
The cost of general admission will be $10, but children 12 and under can get in for free.
A “VIP Experience” with premium seating, food and beverages is planned as well, per the presentation. Organizers have not yet announced a price for this experience.
This story was originally published March 25, 2026 at 5:15 AM.
