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Posts for World Cup 2026

Not a Fan Zone? Not a Problem! How Any City Can Celebrate the FIFA World Cup 26™

May 26, 2026  by  Jillian Henze
Category:  Guest Author ,  Tourism ,  World Cup 2026 ,  Special Events

The small city of Waitsburg offers one example of how cities and towns in Washington can celebrate this year's World Cup™—and be prepared for a potential uptick in tourism locally—without being an official Fan Zone or Host City.  

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Planning for Summer Events: World Cup Edition

April 29, 2026  by  Leah LaCivita
Category:  Emergency Management ,  Gift of Public Funds ,  World Cup 2026 ,  Special Events

Public agencies wanting to host special events in conjunction with the 2026 World Cup will need to incorporate unique considerations into their event planning, such as how to avoid trademark violations or whether to apply for new expanded alcohol service areas. 

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A Peek Behind the Pitch: Washington Local Governments Prepare for the World Cup™

February 9, 2026  by  Leah LaCivita
Category:  Tourism ,  Inclusive Communities ,  World Cup 2026 ,  Special Events ,  Economic Development

As summer approaches, communities across the state are working hard to ensure the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ is an opportunity to showcase local spirit and culture, bring resources to businesses, strengthen community ties, and invest in public infrastructure. 

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Soccer May Bring 750,000 to Washington Next Year. Is Your Short-Term Rental Program Ready?

October 8, 2025  by  Leonard Bauer
Category:  Tourism ,  Licensing and Regulation ,  World Cup 2026

Next summer, fans will gather in the Pacific Northwest and in Fan Zones statewide to watch their favorite team during the 2026 World CupTM.  Cities, towns, and counties can plan for (and benefit from) this tourist influx, in part, with a robust short-term rental program.

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Ready for Kick Off? Washington Prepares to Welcome the Beautiful Game in 2026

September 15, 2025  by  Flannary Collins
Category:  Parks and Recreation Facilities ,  Streets and Sidewalks ,  World Cup 2026

With an estimated six billion viewers worldwide, the FIFA World Cup 2026TM is coming to the U.S., with Seattle hosting six games next summer. How can cities take advantage of the recently passed HB 1515 to build lively gathering spaces for soccer fans across the state?

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