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Tag: World Cup 2026

  • FIFA World Cup 2026 Visa Guide: ESTA, B1/B2, FIFA PASS, and Travel Restrictions by Country

    FIFA World Cup 2026 Visa Guide: ESTA, B1/B2, FIFA PASS, and Travel Restrictions by Country

    Getting tickets was step one. Getting into the United States is step two — and for millions of international fans planning to attend FIFA World Cup 2026, visa requirements are the most urgent and least-explained question in the room. This guide breaks down what each country needs, how the FIFA PASS works, which countries face special restrictions, and how to get everything processed before the deadlines catch you off guard.

    The most important thing first: The FIFA PASS is a real U.S. Department of State program offering priority B1/B2 visa appointment slots for FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders. If you need a B1/B2 visa, apply for the FIFA PASS immediately — appointment slots are filling months before the matches. The FIFA PASS does not guarantee a visa; it expedites the interview appointment.

    Do You Need a Visa to Enter the United States for the World Cup?

    It depends on your country. There are three main categories:

    Category 1: Visa Waiver Program (VWP / ESTA)

    Citizens of 42 countries can enter the U.S. without a visa using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). These include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and others.

    If your country is in the VWP, you need to apply for ESTA online at travel.state.gov before traveling. The cost is $21. Approval typically comes within 72 hours, but applying at least two weeks in advance is recommended. ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires.

    Important: ESTA is not a visa. If you have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen after March 2011, you may not be eligible for ESTA and will need a regular B1/B2 visa even if your country participates in the VWP.

    Category 2: B1/B2 Visa with FIFA PASS

    Citizens of countries not in the VWP — including Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and many other World Cup-qualified nations — need a B1/B2 tourist visa.

    The standard B1/B2 visa process can take weeks or months depending on country and embassy. The FIFA PASS accelerates this:

    1. Obtain your official FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket (the ticket reference number is required)
    2. Register for the FIFA PASS through the U.S. Department of State portal
    3. You will receive access to priority visa interview appointments at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
    4. Complete Form DS-160 (the online visa application) before your appointment
    5. Pay the visa application fee (currently $185 for B1/B2)
    6. Attend your consulate interview with all required documents

    The FIFA PASS does not guarantee visa approval. It only prioritizes your appointment slot. The final decision rests with the consular officer based on your individual application.

    Category 3: Countries with Special Travel Restrictions

    Some World Cup-qualified countries face additional U.S. travel restrictions that complicate or prevent access:

    Iran: Iran is on the U.S. visa suspension list. Iranian nationals (traveling on Iranian passports) are generally not eligible for B1/B2 tourist visas. Iranian national team players are exempt under special provisions. Fans with Iranian passports who already hold valid U.S. visas may enter; those without face significant obstacles. Iranian-Americans and Iranian citizens with dual nationality should consult an immigration attorney about their specific situation.

    Visa Bond Program (2026): As of April 2026, certain countries are subject to the B1/B2 Visa Bond Program, which requires visa applicants to demonstrate financial ties to their home country as a condition of visa approval. Some World Cup-qualified nations are affected. Check travel.state.gov for the current list.

    Haiti: Haiti qualified for the World Cup but faces severe visa restrictions. Haitian nationals should seek immigration legal advice before applying.

    Timeline: When to Apply for Your Visa

    FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Seattle (Lumen Field) run from June 15 through July 6, 2026. Visa application deadlines:

    • ESTA: Can be applied for at any time before travel. Recommended: at least 2 weeks before departure.
    • B1/B2 with FIFA PASS: Apply for the FIFA PASS as soon as you have a confirmed ticket. Interview appointment slots for the June–July 2026 matches are already limited. Do not wait.
    • B1/B2 without FIFA PASS: Processing times vary dramatically by country. In some countries, appointment wait times are 3–12 months. If you haven’t applied yet, it may already be too late for some matches. Check wait times at travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/wait-times.html

    Crossing the U.S.–Canada Border During the World Cup

    Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada) is also a FIFA World Cup 2026 host city. Many fans plan to attend matches in both cities — particularly Group G fans whose teams play in both Seattle and Vancouver. This requires crossing an international border:

    • To enter Canada: Citizens of most countries need a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visitor visa. The eTA costs CA$7 and is typically approved within minutes. It is separate from the U.S. ESTA and must be applied for independently at ircc.canada.ca.
    • To re-enter the U.S.: You will need the same documents you used to enter the first time — a valid ESTA or B1/B2 visa. Land border crossings on I-5 and I-15 can have long wait times on match days.
    • NEXUS Card: For travelers planning multiple border crossings, the NEXUS card expedites processing at designated border crossings between the U.S. and Canada.

    Country-by-Country Quick Reference

    The following covers the World Cup 2026 qualified nations playing matches in Seattle (Lumen Field):

    • Belgium — VWP member. Need ESTA only. No visa required.
    • Egypt — B1/B2 visa required. Apply for FIFA PASS immediately. Egypt is not on the travel ban list.
    • USA — No entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
    • Australia — VWP member. Need ESTA only. No visa required.
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina — B1/B2 visa required. Apply for FIFA PASS. Bosnia is not on the travel ban list.
    • Qatar — B1/B2 visa required. Apply for FIFA PASS. Qatar is not on the travel ban list.
    • Iran — Severely restricted. Iranian passport holders are generally not eligible for B1/B2 visas. Consult an immigration attorney.
    • New Zealand — VWP member. Need ESTA only. No visa required.

    Documents to Bring to Matches

    In addition to your approved visa or ESTA, have these documents available:

    • Valid passport (must have at least 6 months validity past your U.S. departure date)
    • FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket (printed or in the official FIFA app)
    • Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, Airbnb, etc.)
    • Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
    • Return ticket or proof of departure from the U.S.

    Official Resources

    • ESTA application: esta.cbp.dhs.gov
    • DS-160 (B1/B2 visa application): ceac.state.gov
    • Visa wait times by country: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/wait-times.html
    • Canadian eTA: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the FIFA PASS for World Cup 2026 visas?

    The FIFA PASS is a U.S. Department of State program that provides priority B1/B2 visa interview appointments to FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders. It does not guarantee visa approval — it expedites the interview scheduling process.

    Do Mexican fans need a visa for the FIFA World Cup 2026?

    Yes. Mexico is not in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. Mexican citizens need a B1/B2 visa to enter the United States. Applying through the FIFA PASS as soon as tickets are confirmed is strongly recommended.

    Do Brazilian fans need a visa for FIFA World Cup 2026?

    Yes. Brazil is not in the VWP. Brazilian citizens need a B1/B2 visa. Apply for the FIFA PASS immediately — Brazilian consular appointment wait times are typically long.

    Do Belgian fans need a visa for the World Cup in Seattle?

    No. Belgium is in the Visa Waiver Program. Belgian citizens need only ESTA, applied for online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

    Can Iranian fans attend the Egypt vs Iran match in Seattle on June 26?

    This is one of the most complex visa situations of the entire tournament. Iranian nationals traveling on Iranian passports are generally not eligible for U.S. B1/B2 visas under current restrictions. Iranian-Americans with U.S. passports may attend as normal. Dual nationals and those with existing valid U.S. visas should consult an immigration attorney. The situation may evolve — check travel.state.gov for the most current information.

    How long does a B1/B2 visa take to process for World Cup 2026?

    Processing times vary dramatically by country. The FIFA PASS provides priority appointments, which can reduce wait times significantly. Without the FIFA PASS, wait times in some countries are 6–12 months. The FIFA PASS is the fastest path for most fans needing B1/B2 visas.


    Visa guides in your language: تأشيرة — المصريين  |  تأشيرة — السعوديين  |  تأشيرة — المغاربة  |  تأشيرة — العراقيين  |  تأشيرة — الأردنيين  |  ESTA — Español  |  ESTA — Deutsch  |  ESTA — Français  |  ESTA — 한국어  |  ESTA — 日本語

  • Everett’s FIFA 2026 World Cup Fan Zone at Boxcar Park: Four Match Days, Free Shuttle, and What to Expect

    Everett’s FIFA 2026 World Cup Fan Zone at Boxcar Park: Four Match Days, Free Shuttle, and What to Expect

    When is the Everett FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone?
    Everett’s Waterfront Watch Parties at Boxcar Park run on four match days: Thursday, June 11 (Mexico vs. South Africa, opening match, fan zone opens 10 AM, kickoff noon); Friday, June 12 (USA vs. Paraguay, fan zone opens 4 PM, kickoff 6 PM); Thursday, June 18 (Mexico vs. South Korea, fan zone opens 4 PM, kickoff 6 PM); and Friday, June 19 (USA vs. Australia — the Seattle-hosted match — fan zone opens 10 AM, kickoff noon). Free shuttle from Everett Station and downtown Everett.

    Seven weeks out and counting. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off June 11, and Everett is officially on the host-city party map. The Port of Everett’s Boxcar Park is the city’s designated Waterfront Watch Party site for four matches in the opening rounds of the tournament — and now we finally have the match-day schedule nailed down.

    The short version: Everett is hosting watch parties on June 11, 12, 18, and 19, anchoring around two USMNT group-stage matches and both Mexico group-stage matches. And because the Seattle-hosted USA vs. Australia match on June 19 is a hometown game for the Pacific Northwest, that one is going to be a scene.

    The Match-Day Schedule

    Thursday, June 11 — Mexico vs. South Africa (Opening Match)

    Everett’s Fan Zone opens at 10 AM. Match kicks off at noon. This is the opening match of the entire tournament — the first time the World Cup has been co-hosted by three countries, and Mexico gets the ceremonial first kick. If you want to be at Boxcar Park for the moment the whole thing starts, this is the morning.

    Friday, June 12 — USA vs. Paraguay

    Fan Zone opens at 4 PM, kickoff at 6 PM. The USMNT’s tournament opener. In Everett, on the waterfront, under a spring-into-summer sky. It’s hard to imagine a better setting for a group-stage USA match.

    Thursday, June 18 — Mexico vs. South Korea

    Fan Zone opens at 4 PM, kickoff at 6 PM. Mexico’s second group-stage game. The Mexico fan community in Snohomish County is substantial, and this will be one of the best atmospheres of the whole Fan Zone run.

    Friday, June 19 — USA vs. Australia (Seattle-Hosted Match)

    Fan Zone opens at 10 AM, kickoff at noon. This is the marquee day. The match itself is being played in Seattle at Lumen Field, and Everett’s Fan Zone will be the closest spot north of the city to experience the game without making the drive. Expect the biggest crowd of the tournament at Boxcar Park for this one.

    What’s at Boxcar Park

    The Fan Zone experience is being put together by the City of Everett, Port of Everett, and the Snohomish County Sports Commission. The lineup includes:

    • Large outdoor match screenings at Boxcar Park, the Port’s signature waterfront green space with views of Port Gardner Bay
    • Local food and beverage vendors — the vendor application window closed April 9, so the roster is now being finalized
    • Music between matches
    • Family-friendly activities — this is designed as a full-day waterfront festival, not just a big-screen TV
    • Community celebrations reflecting the diversity of the competing nations
    • Free shuttle operated by Everett Transit with stops at Everett Station, downtown Everett, and Boxcar Park

    Boxcar Park is at the northern edge of Waterfront Place, with direct access to restaurants and shops at Fisherman’s Harbor. If you’ve been to a concert or event at the Port waterfront in the last two years, you know the setup. If you haven’t, the combination of bay views, walkable restaurants, and a large outdoor green space makes Boxcar Park as good a World Cup Fan Zone site as any in the region.

    Getting There: The Free Shuttle

    Parking on a World Cup match day near the waterfront is going to be tight. The organizers know it, and the solution is Everett Transit’s free shuttle. Stops include:

    • Everett Station (for Sounder commuter rail and Amtrak Cascades arrivals)
    • Downtown Everett
    • Boxcar Park

    If you’re coming from Seattle for the June 19 USA match and want to experience it from the Everett Fan Zone rather than dealing with Lumen Field crowds, Sounder to Everett Station plus the free shuttle is the smart move.

    Why Everett Landed a Fan Zone

    Seattle is one of the 11 U.S. host cities for the 2026 World Cup, and the Pacific Northwest got six matches at Lumen Field — a mix of group-stage games, a Round of 32 match, and a Round of 16 match. But the host-city footprint extends well beyond Lumen. The SeattleFWC26 organizing committee announced official Fan Zones across Washington State, with Everett’s Boxcar Park among the flagship sites north of Seattle.

    For Everett specifically, the Fan Zone is the kind of event that puts the city’s waterfront transformation on a national stage. Restaurants and hotels along Waterfront Place, Hewitt Avenue, and the Port of Everett core are going to see a meaningful surge in June foot traffic — especially on the June 19 USA match day.

    What Everett Fan Zone Days Look Like

    Here’s the honest take on what to expect at Boxcar Park on one of these match days: a mid-sized crowd of 2,000-5,000 people, a festival vibe that ramps up as kickoff approaches, kids chasing a ball on the lawn while parents get a beer from a local vendor, big screens showing the match, and — when the USA scores, or when Mexico scores — a roar you can probably hear across Port Gardner Bay.

    It’s community soccer the way community soccer should be done in 2026: free, outdoors, waterfront, with a big screen and a local beer in your hand.

    What’s Still Being Finalized

    • Food and beverage vendor lineup — applications closed April 9; the final list should be announced before the June 11 opener
    • Music and entertainment schedule — typically announced about a month before match days
    • Additional Fan Zone expansions — SeattleFWC26 has continued to add Fan Zone locations across the state; more may be announced between now and June

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Everett’s FIFA 2026 Fan Zone?

    Boxcar Park at the Port of Everett, on the north side of Waterfront Place.

    What match days are Everett’s Fan Zone hosting?

    Thursday June 11, Friday June 12, Thursday June 18, and Friday June 19, 2026.

    Is the Fan Zone free?

    Yes. The Waterfront Watch Parties are free to attend.

    Is parking available?

    Limited on-site parking. A free Everett Transit shuttle connects Everett Station, downtown Everett, and Boxcar Park on match days — the recommended way to get there.

    What’s the USMNT schedule for Everett’s Fan Zone?

    USA vs. Paraguay on June 12 at 6 PM kickoff, and USA vs. Australia (the Seattle-hosted match) on June 19 at noon kickoff. Both air on the Boxcar Park big screens.

    What about Mexico matches?

    Two Mexico group-stage matches will be shown at the Fan Zone — June 11 vs. South Africa (the tournament opener) and June 18 vs. South Korea.

    When does Everett’s Fan Zone open on match days?

    Two hours before noon kickoffs (10 AM) and two hours before 6 PM kickoffs (4 PM).

  • FIFA World Cup Watch Parties at Boxcar Park: What Everett Waterfront Businesses and Vendors Need to Know

    FIFA World Cup Watch Parties at Boxcar Park: What Everett Waterfront Businesses and Vendors Need to Know

  • Your Neighborhood’s World Cup Moment: What Everett Residents Need to Know About the June Waterfront Watch Parties

    Your Neighborhood’s World Cup Moment: What Everett Residents Need to Know About the June Waterfront Watch Parties

  • Plan Your Day: Visiting Everett for the FIFA World Cup Waterfront Watch Parties

    Plan Your Day: Visiting Everett for the FIFA World Cup Waterfront Watch Parties

    Everett is hosting four official FIFA World Cup watch parties at Boxcar Park this June. If you’re making a trip to the waterfront for one of these events, here’s how to plan a full day out.

    The four games — Mexico vs. South Africa (June 11), USA vs. Paraguay (June 12), Mexico vs. South Korea (June 18), and USA vs. Australia (June 19) — draw on Everett’s waterfront location to create an experience that goes well beyond just watching a screen. Port Gardner Bay as a backdrop, marina activity, fresh seafood, and AquaSox games across the street make the Everett fan zone genuinely worth the drive from Seattle or beyond.

    Getting There

    By car from Seattle: Take I-5 North to Exit 193 (Everett/Everett Ave). Follow Marine View Drive north along the waterfront to Port of Everett. Drive time from downtown Seattle: 35-45 minutes in normal traffic. For USA match days, add buffer — these will draw regional crowds.

    By transit: The best option for the evening matches (June 12 and 18) is Community Transit or Sounder North to Everett Station, then the free Everett Transit shuttle to Boxcar Park. Sounder North runs Monday-Friday — check Sound Transit’s schedule. Community Transit Route 512 runs from Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace; connect at Everett Station for the shuttle.

    Parking: Port of Everett marina lots are the closest option. On USA match days, plan to arrive 90 minutes before kickoff to secure a spot. Alternatively, park downtown (free street parking in most of Everett’s downtown grid) and walk 15-20 minutes to the waterfront, or take the free shuttle from Everett Station.

    Before the Match: The Waterfront

    Arrive at least two hours early — both because the fan zone opens two hours before kickoff and because the Port of Everett waterfront has enough to keep you occupied. The marina district includes restaurants, coffee, and waterfront walking paths with views of Jetty Island and the Olympic Peninsula across Port Gardner Bay.

    Anthony’s HomePort Everett is the signature waterfront dining spot — Pacific Northwest seafood with marina views. It books up on event days; call ahead or plan to eat before the main crowd arrives. The Boatyard Bar & Grill is a more casual option at the marina. Walk the marina path north to see the working cargo port and South Terminal area before settling into Boxcar Park for the match.

    If You’re Staying Overnight: Everett for a Weekend

    The evening matches (June 12 and 18, both 6 PM kickoffs) pair well with a Snohomish County overnight. Hotels near the waterfront and Paine Field area include the Hampton Inn Everett, the Inn at Port Gardner (boutique, directly on the waterfront — book this one well in advance for World Cup weekend), and multiple options near I-5 at the Everett Mall exit.

    After the evening matches, Everett’s Broadway District has bars and restaurants open late. The Rocket Bar and Anchor Pub are the most-cited spots for post-event crowds near downtown.

    Other Things to Do in Everett on Match Day

    AquaSox baseball: The Everett AquaSox (Seattle Mariners affiliate) play home games at Funko Field at Everett Memorial Stadium — about a 10-minute walk from the waterfront. Check the MiLB schedule for June home dates. A waterfront FIFA watch party followed by an AquaSox evening game is a legitimately great Everett day.

    Jetty Island: Free ferry from the Everett Waterfront (runs July and August) to Jetty Island, a two-mile natural sand island with beaches, trails, and unobstructed water views. Not running in June — mark your calendar for a return visit.

    Funko HQ: If you or your kids are fans of Funko Pop! figures (the collectible vinyl toys), the Funko headquarters is in Everett at 2802 Wetmore Ave — less than two miles from the waterfront. The HQ store stocks exclusive Everett-specific releases and is worth a stop.

    Frequently Asked Questions — For Visitors

    Is the Everett FIFA fan zone worth visiting from Seattle?

    Yes — especially if you want a different experience than the dense urban crowd at a Seattle venue. The Boxcar Park waterfront setting is scenic, the event is free, and there’s enough around the Port of Everett marina to make a half-day trip of it. For families with kids, the outdoor space and less-crowded environment is a plus.

    What is the Inn at Port Gardner in Everett?

    The Inn at Port Gardner is an upscale boutique hotel directly on the Everett waterfront, adjacent to the marina. It’s the closest accommodations to Boxcar Park and the most atmospheric option for a World Cup weekend stay. Book early — it’s a small property that will fill quickly for the June match dates.

    Where can I eat near the Everett World Cup fan zone?

    Best options near Boxcar Park: Anthony’s HomePort Everett (Pacific Northwest seafood, waterfront views), the Boatyard Bar & Grill (casual marina dining), and the growing waterfront retail area at Waterfront Place. Event-day food vendors will also be on-site at Boxcar Park itself.

    Related Exploring Everett coverage: Complete FIFA Fan Zone Guide — All Match Dates and Details

  • Everett’s FIFA World Cup Fan Zone at Boxcar Park: Your Complete Guide to the June Waterfront Watch Parties

    Everett’s FIFA World Cup Fan Zone at Boxcar Park: Your Complete Guide to the June Waterfront Watch Parties

    Q: Where is Everett’s FIFA World Cup fan zone?
    A: Everett’s official FIFA World Cup 2026 fan zone is at Boxcar Park at the Port of Everett waterfront. Watch parties are scheduled for June 11, 12, 18, and 19, featuring USA vs. Paraguay, Mexico vs. South Africa, Mexico vs. South Korea, and USA vs. Australia. Free admission, with a free shuttle from Everett Station.

    Everett’s FIFA World Cup Fan Zone at Boxcar Park: Your Complete Guide to the June Waterfront Watch Parties

    The FIFA World Cup comes to North America this summer, and Everett has an official seat at the table. The city is hosting four Waterfront Watch Parties at Boxcar Park — the outdoor venue at the Port of Everett waterfront — bringing tournament soccer to the shores of Port Gardner Bay in one of the most scenic viewing settings in the region.

    This isn’t an unofficial gathering. Everett is one of nine official fan zone locations in Washington State, designated by the Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026 organizing committee (SeattleFWC26) and the city in partnership with the Port of Everett and Snohomish County Sports Commission.

    The Games, the Dates, the Times

    Four match screenings are scheduled. Plan around the fan zone opening times — arrive early, especially for the USA matches, as attendance is expected to be high.

    Thursday, June 11 — Mexico vs. South Africa (Tournament Opening Match)
    Fan Zone opens: 10:00 AM | Kickoff: 12:00 PM
    This is the tournament’s opening match — a significant draw for Mexican-American fans across Snohomish County, which has one of the larger Hispanic populations in the Puget Sound region.

    Friday, June 12 — USA vs. Paraguay
    Fan Zone opens: 4:00 PM | Kickoff: 6:00 PM
    A Group Stage match for the U.S. Men’s National Team. Evening timing makes this the most accessible match for working attendees.

    Thursday, June 18 — Mexico vs. South Korea
    Fan Zone opens: 4:00 PM | Kickoff: 6:00 PM
    Another evening match, with dual appeal to Mexican-American and Korean-American communities in the Everett area.

    Friday, June 19 — USA vs. Australia (Seattle-hosted match)
    Fan Zone opens: 10:00 AM | Kickoff: 12:00 PM
    The actual match is being played in Seattle, making this the highest-visibility event for regional soccer fans. The Boxcar Park venue provides an alternative watch experience with waterfront views.

    What’s at the Fan Zone

    Boxcar Park at the Port of Everett is an open waterfront venue with Port Gardner Bay as its backdrop. For the World Cup events, the city is setting up a large outdoor screen, local food and beverage vendors, live music, family-friendly activities, and community programming.

    Admission is free. Vendors from across Snohomish County have been recruited to serve the crowds — the City of Everett and Port put out an active vendor call for local food businesses interested in participating.

    Getting There: The Free Shuttle

    Everett Transit is running a free shuttle connecting Everett Station (the main transit hub at Smith Ave and Wetmore Ave) to downtown Everett and Boxcar Park. The shuttle is designed to reduce traffic pressure on the waterfront access roads and make the event accessible to attendees arriving via Sound Transit, Community Transit, or Sounder North commuter rail.

    For drivers, the Port of Everett waterfront parking area at the marina provides the closest access. Arrive early on USA match days — parking fills quickly during major waterfront events. The alternative is to park at Everett Station and take the free shuttle, which eliminates the waterfront parking crunch entirely.

    Why Everett Got a Fan Zone

    Seattle is hosting multiple FIFA World Cup matches at Lumen Field in June 2026. The regional organizing committee, SeattleFWC26, worked with cities across western Washington to establish official fan zones that would distribute World Cup energy beyond the immediate Seattle footprint.

    Everett’s waterfront — particularly Boxcar Park, which sits at the heart of the Port’s Waterfront Place mixed-use development — is tailor-made for an outdoor event of this scale. Port Gardner Bay provides a natural amphitheater effect; the existing food and hospitality businesses at the marina create an event ecosystem without requiring major temporary infrastructure.

    Mayor Cassie Franklin specifically highlighted the FIFA watch parties in her April 2026 State of the City address, calling the event series an opportunity to “welcome visitors and showcase Everett on a global stage.” With 400,000 annual visitors expected at the proposed Outdoor Event Center nearby, the World Cup watch parties function as a preview of Everett’s waterfront entertainment capacity.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is the Everett FIFA fan zone free?

    Yes. Admission to Boxcar Park for all four Everett World Cup watch parties is free. Food and beverage vendors on-site will charge for their offerings.

    Where exactly is Boxcar Park at the Port of Everett?

    Boxcar Park is located at the Port of Everett’s Waterfront Place marina area, on the north end of the Everett waterfront. The nearest address reference is the Port of Everett marina entrance at 1205 Marine View Dr, Everett, WA 98201. The park sits along Port Gardner Bay with direct water views.

    What matches is Everett showing at the FIFA World Cup fan zone?

    Four matches: Mexico vs. South Africa (June 11, noon), USA vs. Paraguay (June 12, 6 PM), Mexico vs. South Korea (June 18, 6 PM), and USA vs. Australia (June 19, noon). Fan zone opens two hours before kickoff and stays open two hours after the match ends.

    How do I get to the Everett waterfront fan zone by transit?

    Everett Transit is running a free shuttle from Everett Station (Sound Transit rail hub and Community Transit interchange at Smith Ave/Wetmore Ave) through downtown Everett to Boxcar Park. Sounder North commuter rail serves Everett Station from Seattle on weekday schedules; check Sound Transit for match-day service details.

    Is the Everett World Cup fan zone an official FIFA event?

    Yes. Everett is one of nine official fan zone locations in Washington State designated by SeattleFWC26 and FIFA’s regional organizing structure. The event is organized in partnership with the City of Everett, Port of Everett, and Snohomish County Sports Commission.

    Are there food options at the Everett fan zone?

    Yes — local vendors recruited specifically for the event will be on-site. The surrounding Port of Everett marina area also has permanent restaurants and food businesses. Arrive with time before kickoff to explore the waterfront dining options nearby.

    Can I bring kids to the Everett World Cup fan zone?

    Yes. The event includes family-friendly activities alongside the match screenings. Boxcar Park is an open outdoor venue accessible to all ages. Come early to get good viewing positions before the crowd builds on USA match days.