in partnership with Pierce County and City of Tacoma
Kick-off Celebration and Parade
On June 12, 2026, festivities begin with a community parade traveling down Portland Avenue, bringing neighbors, youth, and partners together in celebration. The parade culminates at the Puyallup Tribe of Indians’ Administration, where the Tribal community will host traditional opening ceremonies and share a Lushootseed traditional narrative to mark this historic moment. The evening concludes with a fireworks display, visible from the Puyallup Tribal Administration front lawn, welcoming visitors from around the world to the region.
Puyallup Tribe Fan Zone
Throughout the tournament, the Puyallup Tribe will host the official Puyallup Tribe Fan Zone on the Puyallup Tribal Administration campus. Pierce County and the City of Tacoma are partnering with the Tribe to support the June 12 kickoff celebration and Fan Zone activations throughout the tournament, helping ensure the community can celebrate together on Puyallup land.
The Fan Zone will be open during the six Seattle-based matches (June 15, 19, 24, 26, July 1, and July 6, 2026). Each day will feature live viewings of World Cup matches on large outdoor screens, cultural sharing by Tribal and local artists, vendors, food trucks, and a kid’s zone. Free guest parking at the Tacoma Dome and Link Light Rail Station with a complimentary shuttle service to and from the Tribe’s campus will be provided.
Fan Zone events coincide with other previously announced events hosted by the Puyallup Tribe at Tribal Administration including the World Cup Protocol (June 18), World Cup pow-wow (June 19-21), and World Cup Stick Games Tournament (June 26-28).
More Ways to Celebrate
In addition to the kickoff, Fan Zone, and traditional cultural events, the Puyallup Tribe will host a series of World Cup viewing parties at its venues across the region including Emerald Queen Casino, Woven Seafood and Chophouse, Commencement Bay Cannabis on 72nd Street and Firecracker Alley.
A detailed event calendar is available on the Tribe’s website at www.puyalluptribe-nsn.gov/fifa-world-cup-2026-schedule-and-events/.
Shared Spirit, Shared Celebration
The Puyallup Tribe is the first Indigenous nation to be formally represented at the World Cup. As Legacy Supporter of the Seattle FWC26 Host Committee, the Tribe is committed to sharing its culture and values with World Cup fans. The Tribe invites visitors to not only witness world-class soccer, but also experience the enduring presence, generosity, and resilience of the Puyallup people.
The partnership with Pierce County and Tacoma will support the Tribe’s vision. The collaboration between them reflects a shared belief in the power of sport to bring people together, while also supporting coordinated logistics, tourism promotion, and public engagement as part of the regional World Cup Host Committee.
“There are too many fans in Seattle! They’re going to have to spill over here to the lower part of the rez,” said Puyallup Tribal Council Chairman Bill Sterud to laughter as the event kicked off. The Chairman noted during the joyous ceremony that the Tribe, city and county were all there as friends.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the world to experience Pierce County this summer. The Puyallup Tribe Fan Zone will offer an experience unlike anything else happening in our state,” said Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello. “When people come to Pierce County, they’ll take in stunning mountain-to-sound views, discover incredible local art, and find event swag that truly stands out. With accessible transit options connecting visitors to the Fan Zone and the matches happening in Seattle, it’s easy to be part of the excitement. We’re especially honored to partner with the Puyallup Tribe of Indians as hosts. Their deep cultural roots and rich history in this region will be proudly shared with visitors from around the world.”
“This partnership shows what’s possible when we work together for our community,” said Tacoma Mayor Anders Ibsen. “As the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to our region, we’re proud to partner with the Puyallup Tribe to create a celebration that reflects the culture, energy, and welcoming spirit of the South Sound.”
“I think about how this brings our communities together and that’s really the magic of the World Cup. It’s a unification event,” said Seattle FWC26 CEO Peter Tomozawa. “It’s been an honor and a pleasure to work with everyone in this room. This brings home all the reason why we needed to do this. We’re doing this in many, many communities, but this is a key one.”
About the Puyallup Tribe of Indians
The Puyallup People have lived along the shores of what is now called Puget Sound since time immemorial. The Puyallup Tribe of Indians is a sovereign nation of more than 6,000 members and one of the largest employers in Pierce County. It serves its members and community with generosity and is committed to building a sustainable way of life for future generations. Learn more about the Puyallup Tribe.
About the Puyallup Tribal Council
The Puyallup Tribal Council is the elected governing body of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. The council consists of Chairman Bill Sterud, Vice Chairwoman Sylvia Miller, and Councilmembers Annette Bryan, James Rideout, Anna Bean, Monica Miller and Fred Dillon. Learn more about the Puyallup Tribal Council.
About Pierce County
Nearly 1 million residents live in Pierce County, the second largest county in the state of Washington. Our mission is to build communities that feel safe, welcoming, and connected.
About the City of Tacoma
Tacoma is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Commencement Bay and framed by the majestic Mount Rainier, the city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. A hub of economic activity, the city benefits from its strategic location as a key transportation and logistics center, making it an attractive spot for businesses. Learn more about the City of Tacoma.
