The world’s game is finally here in Thurston County.
Thanks to the vision and leadership of Jennie Foglia-Jones, Chad Carpenter, the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce and an incredible coalition of community partners the Olympia-Lacey FIFA World Cup Fan Zone is transforming Port Plaza on Olympia’s waterfront into a gathering place for soccer fans, families, businesses and visitors from across the region. The event celebrates the excitement of FIFA World Cup 2026 while showcasing the power of local partnerships and community pride.
As Seattle hosts FIFA World Cup matches this summer Thurston County residents won’t have to travel north to experience the energy of the world’s biggest sporting event. Instead they’ll be able to gather at Port Plaza in downtown Olympia, WA for live match broadcasts on giant outdoor video screens, local food and beverage vendors, live entertainment, interactive activities and opportunities to connect with fellow soccer enthusiasts.
Organizers describe the Fan Zone as a festival-style celebration featuring music, contests, giveaways, soccer-themed activities, gathering spaces and entertainment throughout the day.
The Fan Zone will host four major event days:
- Friday, June 19 – USA vs. Australia
- Wednesday, June 24 – Canada vs. Switzerland
- Thursday, June 25 – USA vs. Türkiye
- Friday, June 26 – Egypt vs. Iran
Fans will watch matches on large outdoor LED screens while enjoying the waterfront atmosphere of Port Plaza.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Fan Zone is how many organizations have come together to make it happen. The Cities of Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater, Thurston County, the Port of Olympia, Experience Olympia & Beyond, local tribes, businesses, nonprofits and soccer organizations have all joined forces to create a world-class experience right here in our community.
For FC Olympia the event aligns perfectly with the club’s mission of building a true Path to Pro soccer ecosystem in South Sound. FC Olympia will have a presence throughout the Fan Zone including a booth featuring USL players who will be available to engage with fans and help inspire the next generation of local soccer players.
As visitors descend on downtown Olympia to watch World Cup matches, local businesses benefit, friendships are formed, and new opportunities emerge to grow the game throughout Thurston County.
The celebration continues on June 27 at Capital Field Board Community Soccer Day where FC Olympia will join Blackhills FC, Tumwater Soccer Club, Capital Field Board and numerous community partners for a day dedicated to local soccer.
The event will feature:
- FC Olympia’s inflatable soccer field
- Soccer tennis
- Youth activities
- Club showcases
- Community vendors
- Family-friendly soccer experiences
- Opportunities to learn about local clubs and pathways for players of all ages
Community Soccer Day highlights the strength of Thurston County’s soccer pyramid, from recreational youth soccer to club level youth all the way to the professional pathway represented by FC Olympia and the USL system. It reflects a shared commitment among local clubs and organizations to provide opportunities for players at every level. This event is FREE!
Get your tickets for the Olympia-Lacey FIFA World Cup Fan Zone, bring your friends and family, and be part of this historic summer of soccer.
Fan Zone Information & Tickets:
https://thurstonchamber.com/fanzone/
Community Soccer Day:
Friday, June 27
Capital Fields Sports Complex
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