Everett awarded $10K for FIFA World Cup watch party

Award is part of $10M in grants from the Commonwealth to support World Cup–related events across Massachusetts

Special to The Advocate

  Mayor Robert J. Van Campen was pleased to announce that the City of Everett received $10,000 to host a community watch party celebrating the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The City of Everett is planning a public watch party event at Everett Stadium featuring a large screen with a sound setup, free local and diverse food options, and family-friendly activities. The event is in the early stages of planning and additional details about the community watch party, including the game that will be featured, will be announced at a later date. The Healey-Driscoll Administration recently announced that Everett is one of 17 recipients to receive a portion of $10 million in grants through the Sports and Entertainment Events Fund Grant Program to support fan celebrations and community watch parties across Massachusetts celebrating the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Everett is one of the most diverse cities in the state, with residents from around the world where soccer is a big part of everyday life, making this a natural fit for our community,” said Mayor Van Campen. “This is an excellent chance to bring people together in a way that reflects that. We’re grateful to be one of the communities included to create an event that is open and welcoming for all.”

Administered by the Office of Travel and Tourism, which is part of Massachusetts’ Executive Office of Economic Development, the funding is for operations, marketing and safety planning for World Cup–related events that promote tourism and support local economies across Massachusetts. The awards will fund programming in many communities for events taking place in June and July.

“The World Cup will bring people from across the globe to Massachusetts, and we want every resident across our state to be part of that moment,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These events will create opportunities for residents and visitors to come together, celebrate the world’s game, support our local businesses and experience the energy and connection that sports can inspire. By investing in community celebrations across Massachusetts, we’re making sure this global event delivers for people in every region.”

Massachusetts will host seven soccer matches during the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup between June 13 and July 9, 2026. These matches are expected to bring visitors from around the world, creating opportunities for communities statewide to participate in the celebration through locally organized events and festivals.

To learn more about the award and the Sports and Entertainment Fund Grant program, visit cityofeverett.com/watch-party-award.