Everett Business Guide to 2026 World Cup Watch Parties
February 3, 2026 - Everett, WA
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to the Pacific Northwest, and Everett businesses have a unique opportunity to welcome soccer fans from around the globe. With more than 750,000 visitors expected across 16 host cities, King County alone anticipates nearly $930 million in economic activity. While Snohomish County's share will be smaller, local businesses - especially hotels, bars, and restaurants - stand to benefit significantly from this special event.
Visitors coming to the region want a World Cup experience that's easy to navigate, affordable, and enjoyable, ideally with fun activities and shopping nearby. Everett is perfectly positioned to offer exactly that.
Everett Community has been working to gather this information for local businesses, attending sessions hosted by the Lynnwood Chamber of Commerce, Woodinville Chamber of Commerce, Economic Alliance Snohomish County, and consulting with officials at the Snohomish County Sports Commission to ensure our community is well-prepared for this historic event.
Good News: The City Has You Covered
The City of Everett has already been designated an official "fan zone" which includes a blanket license for watch parties within city limits, meaning every business can participate without purchasing individual viewing rights — but only under certain conditions.
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Understanding Licensing Requirements
Here's the critical distinction: If your establishment charges customers directly or indirectly to watch the games (such as through cover charges or ticket sales), you must apply for a commercial license. However, if you only charge for food and drinks while viewing remains free, no formal license is required. This means most bars and restaurants operating normally during game times can host watch parties without additional licensing fees.
FIFA's Strict Branding Rules
FIFA enforces stringent regulations on how businesses can promote watch parties. Businesses should not refer to "Lumen Field" (use "Seattle Stadium" instead) and may not use any language implying you're hosting "official" events or are affiliated with the tournament, including,
- "FIFA," "World Cup," or "FIFA World Cup 2026"
- Official team names, logos, players, or mascots
- Event or sponsor trademarks
Instead, businesses may use creative alternatives like 'The Big Game', 'The World's Game', 'The Beautiful Game', 'The Global Tournament', 'Matchday', 'The Match', 'Beyond The Match', 'Beautiful Game, Beautiful Cities', 'Come Early, Stay Late', and 'Goal Special'.
Seattle Match Schedule
- Match 16 on Monday, June 15th
- Match 32 on Friday, June 19th
- Match 52 on Wednesday, June 24th
- Match 63 on Friday, June 26th
- Match 82 on Wednesday, July 1st
- Match 94 on Monday, July 6th
Getting Ready
To deliver a quality viewing experience, businesses should ensure they have adequate technical infrastructure. Aventacor is offering to help verify you have the right internet speeds, wiring, networking equipment, and audio-visual setups to handle high-definition streaming and enthusiastic crowds.
Promotion is key to maximizing your watch party attendance. Consider listing your events on the free community calendar, and advertising in Welcome Magazine which offers print advertising exclusive to many Snohomish County locations, including Seattle Paine Field International Airport.
Funding Opportunities
Snohomish County is accepting applications for the 2026 Tourism Promotion Area program, which supports projects attracting visitors during the World Cup and other major events. This includes reimbursement grants up to $40,000 for advertising, event marketing, and destination marketing efforts that generate overnight stays in Snohomish County. Applications for funding at or under $50,000 are due four months prior to events.
Expanded Outdoor Alcohol Service
Under Washington House Bill 1515, the City of Everett may request expanded outdoor alcohol service for liquor licensees. If approved, businesses intending to host World Cup watch parties could apply for individual permits for outdoor alcohol service, subject to strict guidelines. Check with city officials for updates on this opportunity.
The 2026 World Cup represents an extraordinary opportunity for Everett's hospitality sector. By understanding the regulations, preparing your venue, and promoting effectively, your business can be part of a global celebration while contributing to the local economy.
Business Resources
Seattle Playbooks
Download Playbooks
Brand Guidelines
Country Profiles
Snohomish County
Snohomish County Business Engagement
Snohomish County Brand Guide
SnoCo Sports Commission, Tammy Dunn, tammy@snocosports.org
SnoCo Economic Development, Sarah Strozyk, sarah.strozyk@snoco.org
SnoCo Tourism Marketing, Richard Porter, richard.porter@snoco.org
SnoCo Tourism Marketing, Nick Shekeryk, nick.shekeryk@snoco.org
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