The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is coming to Philadelphia this June in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for local, state, and regional soccer fans and a significant driver of tourism in the surrounding region.
As an official partner of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, DTO will host four statewide watch parties of select FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches, enabling all Delawareans the opportunity to experience the magic of the World Cup in their community.
“Delaware is a small state with a big heart, and, this summer, we’re going to feel the biggest game on Earth, together,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “With watch parties in every county and a World Cup Final celebration at the University of Delaware Stadium, we’re creating memories for families, boosting local businesses, and showing the world that the First State is truly a state of neighbors. I’m proud Delaware is partnering with Philadelphia Soccer 2026 to welcome the world to our region and our backyard.”
“The FIFA World Cup™ is one of the most watched sporting events on the planet, and we’re proud to help bring that global energy right here to Delaware,” said Jessica Welch, Director of the Delaware Tourism Office. “By partnering with Philadelphia Soccer 2026, we’re creating opportunities for Delawareans to experience the magic of the World Cup close to home while showcasing our state as a welcoming, vibrant destination for visitors from around the world.”
FIRST STATE WATCH PARTIES
DTO will be hosting one watch party per county during the month of June, truly allowing every Delawarean to experience the atmosphere of the World Cup™, with matches shown on large screens and pre-match entertainment. The fourth and final watch party will be the World Cup™ Final itself and will truly be a celebration of everything the World Cup has to offer.
Below are the scheduled watch party dates and times, pending approval by FIFA and its Broadcast Partners:
• Friday, June 12 – USA vs Paraguay, Bob Carpenter Center, Newark, doors open at 7 p.m., match starts at 9 p.m.
• Saturday, June 20 – Germany vs Ivory Coast, Hudson Fields, Milton, doors open at 2 p.m., match starts at 4 p.m.
• Friday, June 26 – Uruguay vs Spain, Delaware State Fairgrounds, Harrington, doors open at 6 p.m., match starts at 8 p.m.
• Sunday, July 19 – World Cup Final, Delaware Stadium at the University of Delaware, Newark, doors open at 1 p.m., match starts at 3 p.m.
Ticket sales for Delaware’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ watch parties begin on Thursday, March 5 at 9 a.m.
Capacity is limited at this venue and the others, and early ticket purchases are encouraged. Links to purchase tickets will be posted on visitdelaware.com/worldcup.
Starting two hours before kick off, gates will open, and a festival-like atmosphere will feature local vendors and interactive games for the whole family. Food and drink will be available for purchase at each location.
Additionally, there will be a pep rally in May at the DE Turf in Frederica. More details will be released closer to the event date.
The Delaware Tourism Office, a division of the Delaware Division of Small Business, promotes tourism and economic growth in Delaware.
