Santa Cruz County is hosting a series of soccer-themed events this summer as part of regional celebrations surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The county’s activities include beach celebrations, tournaments, public art events, youth programs and official Fan Zone watch parties intended to bring together residents and visitors around the international tournament. Giveaways and prizes include World Cup tickets, PlayStation 5 consoles and other items.
“This is about more than soccer,” Santa Cruz County Supervisor Justin Cummings said in a statement. “The World Cup gives us an opportunity to bring people together across cultures, generations and communities while showcasing everything that makes Santa Cruz County special, from our beaches and redwood forests to our arts, restaurants, parks and vibrant local communities.”
The centerpiece of the celebration is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk›s World Soccer Celebration. Planned activities include a June 25 FIFA-licensed watch party for the U.S.-Turkey match on Main Beach, along with a June 27 professional footvolley exhibition, beach soccer, giveaways and more.
In Watsonville, the 2026 PS5 EA Sports FC 26 Tournament runs through July 18. Organizers plan to award PlayStation 5 consoles to the winning team. Watch parties, youth programs and other community events are also planned throughout South County.
Downtown Santa Cruz is also participating through a public art installation at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, where the museum›s red ball sculpture has been transformed into a giant soccer ball. The museum plans to host a series of public watch parties during the competition, including one for the July 19 World Cup final.
Additional watch parties are planned at businesses and gathering spaces throughout the county.
“Whether you are coming for a watch party, a beach event or simply to experience the energy of the World Cup, Santa Cruz County offers an unforgettable mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and community spirit,” Visit Santa Cruz County Chief Executive Officer Terence Concannon said in a statement. “This is an opportunity to showcase our region to visitors from around the world while creating incredible experiences for the people who live here.”