BCAT News

Burlington residents and soccer fans will have several opportunities to celebrate the 2026 World Cup this summer as the Town launches a new community initiative called “Watch the World.”

Created by Burlington’s Economic Development Office, the initiative aims to bring residents, visitors, and local businesses together through watch parties, family activities, and community events tied to the world’s biggest soccer tournament.

Hosted through BringMeToBurlington, the program will feature events throughout June and July, including partnerships with the Burlington Public Library, Burlington High School, Burlington Youth Soccer, and local businesses. A full calendar of events can be found at bringmetoburlington.com/watch-the-world.

Two signature watch party events are planned this summer. The first kicks off June 12 at Tony C’s Sports Bar & Grill, where fans can gather to watch the USA take on Paraguay in the team’s opening match. The event will include giveaways, contests, photo opportunities, and interactive activities.

A second watch party is planned for June 26 at Common Craft, featuring an outdoor viewing of the France versus Norway match under a large tent with a big-screen viewing experience and match-day activities.

Additional activities include a World Cup bracket challenge, a June 10 screening of Next Goal Wins at the Burlington Public Library, a July 15 presentation exploring the history of the World Cup, and youth soccer events celebrating the players, families, and organizations helping grow the sport locally.

“We wanted to create something that brings people together in different ways while also highlighting the incredible businesses, restaurants, hotels, and experiences we have right here in Burlington,” said Melisa Tintocalis, Burlington’s Director of Economic Development. “Whether you’re coming to watch a match, grab a meal with friends, or taking the kids to a soccer clinic, this is about experiencing all that Burlington has to offer.”

The initiative is supported through a $15,000 grant Burlington received earlier this year from the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism to support World Cup-related programming and events.

The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 through July 19, with several matches scheduled in the Greater Boston area. The Watch the World website will serve as a hub for tournament information, watch party details, and local recommendations, including restaurants, shopping, hotels, and attractions around Burlington.

Town officials hope the initiative brings people together around the excitement of the World Cup while also introducing visitors and residents alike to everything Burlington has to offer. Located along Route 128 and just minutes from Boston, Burlington is expected to see increased activity during the tournament.