When the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, it’s not just a global event—it’s a huge local opportunity. In the South Bay and greater LA area, families, fans, and small businesses can all tap into the energy in a way that feels community-driven, not corporate.
Think of this World Cup Local Playbook as a living guide—something we’ll keep updating as we find more local watch parties, small business deals, and community happenings across the South Bay.
For now, here’s a starting point to help you watch, eat, gather, and support local.
ā½ FIFA World Cup Watch Parties - Downtown Torrance
SAVE THE DATE! Downtown Torrance hosting 2 days of soccer celebration
June 13 | 10am - 6pm
July 11 | 12p - 8pm
ā½ FIFA World Cup Updates
The tournament officially kicks off on June 11, 2026.
Team USA in LA: The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) plays their opening match against Paraguay on June 12 at SoFi Stadium.
The Hub: Los Angeles is hosting eight matches total, including a quarterfinal.
š What’s Happening in the South Bay?
The South Bay is leaning heavily into the "100-day countdown" festivities right now.
LA Galaxy Activations: The Galaxy are hosting a summer-long celebration. If you’re near Carson, keep an eye on Galaxy Park (July 4–7) for fan zones and youth clinics.
Beach Fan Zones:Hermosa Beach will host official fan activations from July 14–19. Expect music, merch, and legendary player appearances right on the sand.
Torrance Soccer History: The Torrance Historical Society is running a World Cup exhibition featuring rare memorabilia (including an autographed Pelé jersey) to celebrate the city being the birthplace of AYSO.
West Harbor (San Pedro): This massive new development is scheduled to host official Fan Zones during the knockout rounds in mid-July.
Fan Zones: Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park & Wilmington Recreation Center
ā½ The U.S. Men's National Team will hold a special public training session at Great Park Championship Soccer Stadium ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Fans will have a rare chance to watch the team practice live before the tournament begins.
Important Details:
- Date: Monday, June 8, 2026
- Time: 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
- Location: Great Park Championship Soccer Stadium
- Admission: Free, but tickets are required through a lottery system
Community members can enter the ticket lottery from May 14 through May 25 at 10 a.m. Each email address may request up to two tickets. Winners will be notified by email on May 29.
The training session will also feature comments from City of Irvine leaders and representatives from the USMNT. This will be the only public practice opportunity at Great Park during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11–July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The U.S. Men’s National Team opens tournament play against Paraguay on June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
š Local Businesses: Want to Get Involved?
We’re building this guide as a community resource and would love to feature:
- Watch parties
- Game-day specials
- Family-friendly events
- Soccer-themed promotions
- Community gatherings
