SAN FRANCISCO, CA — With 30 days to go to the 2026 World Cup, San Francisco has been selected as one of several Bay Area cities to take part in the flag-raising celebration, along with many other events.
The Bay Area Host Committee said San Francisco, Oakland, Santa Clara, San Jose, Redwood City, County of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Francisco International Airport, San Jose International Airport and Oakland San Francisco Bay International Airport would be raising flags Tuesday to commemorate the countdown.
"More than just a countdown, the moment symbolizes the BAHC’s mission to unite the Bay Area through sport, signaling the Bay Area’s collective pride and unity as a Host Region, as we prepare for the world’s biggest sporting event," the organization said in a statement.
The flag raising is just one of many activations, celebrations anf community-driven initiatives planned in the Bay Area ahead of the World Cup.
Installations will also begin to appear across the Bay Area in the coming weeks, including a giant version of the adidas Trionda World Cup ball.
That ball will appear at the San Pedro Square in San Jose. Meanwhile, Pier 39 in San Francisco will have a life-sized version of the ball, which fans can take photos with, according to the BAHC.
Visitors arriving at San Francisco International Airport will be greeted in the coming weeks will be greeted by a hologram of Bay Area legend Brandi Chastain and San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie, according to the BAHC.
"As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ continues, the Bay Area is not just preparing to host matches — it is building a moment of unity, creativity, and lasting impact," according to the BAHC. "From neighborhoods to global stages, the region stands ready to welcome the world."
Once the World Cup begins, watch parties will pop up around the Bay Area, including at Crane Groven Park on June 12 for USA vs Paraguay and at Pier 48 on June 18 for Mexico vs South Korea, according to the BAHC.
"These moments will bring supporters together in a classic Bay Area way — blending global passion with local pride," according to the BAHC. "More details on the march including timing and how to claim tickets will be announced in the coming weeks."
The Bay Area has also been selected to host six World Cup matches at Levi's Stadium.
The Bay Area has been selected to host six World Cup matches at Levi's Stadium.
Here are the matchups:
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