Delaware Tourism Office Announces Statewide Watch Parties for FIFA World Cup 2026™

WILMINGTON, Del. – The Delaware Tourism Office is bringing the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ to communities across the First State with a series of statewide watch parties this summer.

As an official promotional partner of Philadelphia Soccer 2026™, DTO will host four large-scale watch parties, one in each county and a final championship celebration, giving Delaware residents the opportunity to experience the energy of the world’s biggest sporting event close to home.

The announcement was made during an invitation-only kickoff event in Wilmington alongside representatives from Philadelphia Soccer 2026 and local host venues.

Governor Matt Meyer emphasized the statewide impact of the partnership.

“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,” Meyer said.

The FIFA World Cup™ is one of the most-watched sporting events globally. According to Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the tournament’s estimated regional economic impact is projected at $770 million, with visitors expected to stay an average of 21 to 24 days.

Jessica Welch, Director of the Delaware Tourism Office, said the partnership highlights Delaware’s role in the region’s global moment.

“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,” Welch said.

World Cup 2026™ Watch Party Schedule

Pending FIFA and broadcast approval, the following matches will be featured:

• Friday, June 12 – USA vs. Paraguay
  Bob Carpenter Center, Newark
  Doors open at 7 p.m. | Match at 9 p.m.

• Saturday, June 20 – Germany vs. Ivory Coast
  Hudson Fields, Milton
  Doors open at 2 p.m. | Match at 4 p.m.

• Friday, June 26 – Uruguay vs. Spain
  Delaware State Fairgrounds, Harrington
  Doors open at 6 p.m. | Match at 8 p.m.

• Sunday, July 19 – FIFA World Cup Final™
  Delaware Stadium at the University of Delaware, Newark
  Doors open at 1 p.m. | Match at 3 p.m.

Each event will feature a festival-style atmosphere beginning two hours before kickoff, including local vendors, food and beverage options, interactive games, and family-friendly entertainment.

Ticket sales begin March 5, 2026. Purchase links will be available at visitdelaware.com/worldcup.

In addition to the watch parties, DTO will host a World Cup pep rally in May at DE Turf in Frederica. More details will be announced soon.

DTO is also offering sponsorship opportunities for businesses interested in participating. Companies can email dto_sports@delaware.gov for more information.

The Delaware Tourism Office, a division of the Delaware Division of Small Business, works to promote tourism and economic growth across the state.