WORCESTER—Worcester is set to host multiple public watch parties and soccer-themed events during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the city was selected to receive state funding as part of a $10 million grant program announced by the Healey-Driscoll administration.
The funding, awarded through the state’s Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grant Program, will support fan celebrations and community watch parties across Massachusetts during the global tournament, which runs from June 13 through July 9, 2026.
Worcester is among 17 grant recipients statewide and is hosting a series of Worcester watch parties, according to the announcement. In addition, the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association received funding for regional festivals, including events planned in Worcester.
City officials said the funding allows Worcester to bring the World Cup experience directly to residents.
“With this funding, we anticipate being able to host nine World Cup watch parties on the Worcester Common, creating vibrant, family-friendly opportunities for our community to gather and celebrate together,” Mayor Joe Petty said in a post on social media. “In addition, the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association will receive a grant and host two additional events, further expanding the impact and reach of these celebrations.”
Petty said soccer’s global appeal aligns closely with Worcester’s diverse population.
“Soccer is truly the world’s game. It transcends language, culture, and borders, and here in Worcester, that couldn’t be more true,” Petty said. “From youth and adult leagues to neighborhood pickup games, soccer connects generations of families across our city.”
The statewide grant program, administered by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, is designed to fund operations, marketing and safety planning for World Cup-related events aimed at boosting tourism and local economic activity.
“The World Cup will bring people from across the globe to Massachusetts, and we want every resident across our state to be part of that moment,” Gov. Maura Healey said in the announcement. “These events will create opportunities for residents and visitors to come together, celebrate the world’s game, support our local businesses and experience the energy and connection that sports can inspire.”
Massachusetts is scheduled to host seven World Cup matches during the 2026 tournament, with games expected to draw international visitors and create opportunities for communities across the state to host related events.
“Events like these create real economic opportunity for communities across Massachusetts,” Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley said in the announcement. “When residents and visitors gather for watch parties and festivals, they support local restaurants, hotels, shops, and small businesses while helping showcase the unique character of cities and towns across the state.”
In addition to Worcester, funding will support events in Boston, Cambridge, Brockton, Lowell, Lexington, Weymouth and other communities across the state.
City officials said additional details about Worcester’s watch parties and related programming will be announced as plans are finalized.
“The World Cup brings the world together, and here in Worcester, we look forward to coming together as one community to share in that excitement,” Petty said.
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