CONTACT:   Amy Davis, Clerk of the Board, Commissioners Office,
360-628-1679 or Amy.Davis@co.thurston.wa.us 

Olympia/Lacey chosen as one of nine fan zones across Washington

SEATTLE, WA – The Seattle FIFA World Cup 26 Local Organizing Committee (SeattleFWC26) has announced that it will partner with nine locations across Washington including Thurston County, to host fan zones during the 2026 World Cup. 

Recognizing the statewide significance of hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 SeattleFWC26 sought partnerships with communities outside of King County to create vibrant fan zones, in order to ensure that as many Washingtonians as possible can be part of this historic event. Specific locations within each city will be announced ahead of the tournament.

“It’s very exciting for Thurston County to be able to play a small part in such a significant global event,” said Thurston County Board of Commissioners Chair Tye Menser. “The World Cup truly has a unique ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds, celebrating shared passions for the beautiful game. It's a fantastic opportunity for Thurston County to embrace that global spirit and be involved in something that has an impact across the world.” 

In addition to a Seattle Fan Celebration hosted at Seattle Center, fan zone locations include: 

• Bellingham – Whatcom County
• Bremerton – Kitsap County
• Everett – Snohomish County
• Olympia/Lacey – Thurston County
• Pasco/Richland/Kennewick (Tri-Cities) – Benton & Franklin Counties
• Spokane – Spokane County
• Tacoma – Pierce County
• Vancouver – Clark County
• Yakima – Yakima County

The Local Organizing Committee is working with FOX 13 Seattle, a broadcast partner of FIFA World Cup 26, to support fan zones across the state. Programming for fan zones during the Seattle FIFA World Cup matches may feature live entertainment, interactive fan activations, and food and beverages.

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