Free outdoor watch parties, kayak soccer, museum nights and more. Bellingham's full FIFA fan zone schedule starts June 12 at Kulshan Trackside Beer Garden.
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Downtown Bellingham will serve as an official FIFA World Cup Fan Zone this summer, hosting a series of public watch parties and community events tied to the global tournament.
Organizers plan large outdoor screenings, neighborhood gatherings and themed activities, aiming to turn Bellingham into a regional hub for fans who want a match-day atmosphere close to home.
Fan Zone to Feature Key U.S. Matchups
The official fan zone centers at the Kulshan Trackside Beer Garden, 298 W. Laurel St., where organizers will host free outdoor watch parties for several United States matches. Large screens, food vendors and activities for all ages round out the experience.
June 19 at noon — USA vs. Australia
June 25 at 6 p.m. — USA vs. Turkey
July 1 at 1 p.m. — Seattle-hosted match
July 6 at 5 p.m. — Seattle-hosted match
July 19 at noon — Final matchAll events free and open to the public. 298 W. Laurel St., Bellingham.
Downtown Block Party Adds Second Viewing Hub
A second gathering will take place on Commercial Street. The Den and The Wild Buffalo will host a watch party on June 19 at noon during the USA vs. Australia match, offering a more nightlife-focused setting. By contrast, the beer garden maintains a family-friendly atmosphere. Organizers are also encouraging a citywide viewing push, with many venues planning to show matches simultaneously.
Local Venues Expand Viewing Options
Across Bellingham and Whatcom County, businesses will show matches during regular hours, giving fans flexible viewing options throughout the tournament. Participating locations include breweries, taprooms and community spaces ranging from 21-and-over venues to all-ages locations such as the Whatcom Sportsplex and the Whatcom Family YMCA.
Additional Events Extend Soccer Theme Citywide
Beyond match screenings, organizers have planned several soccer-themed events running throughout the tournament:
- Allied Arts — Indigenous-led art demonstrations and hands-on activities
- Bellingham Bells — Soccer-themed night with free tickets for youth and adult teams
- Community Boating Center — Kayak soccer tournament: group play July 2-3 and July 9-10, championship July 18
- KMRE — Soccer-related programming throughout the tournament
- Mallard Ice Cream — Children’s activities tied to the tournament
- Whatcom Museum — Fan Zone Fridays with match screenings and themed crafts
Regional Draw Expected
Because several matches connect to nearby Seattle, organizers expect strong regional turnout. Visitors from across Whatcom County and nearby communities may attend.
Ultimately, the goal is simple. Fans can gather, watch and share the experience without traveling to a host city.
