world cup fever
The 2026 FIFA world cup is being held in North America, with matches scheduled in the US, Canada and Mexico (see below for cities).
If you’re lucky enough to have tickets…
Here’s our top travel tips:
Research the public transit ahead of time. We all know parking will be a nightmare.
Use Google Maps transit to determine when you need to leave and add in extra time.
Familiarize yourself with the security protocols of your venue - what can you take in and not take in? You don’t want to be turned away or have to toss anything important.
Keep cash on your person and secure. This likely means a cross-body chest bag in the front. Be aware of where your belongings are at all times.
Have a meeting place for your group, in case you get separated.
If you’re going to be enjoying without heading to a game….
Maybe, like us, you don’t have tickets but you still want to find a way to engage with the World Cup and get the kids involved in a fun, international event.
We are using the event and the excitement to learn about the World Cup, the different countries represented and the cities that are hosting.
Here’s some more ideas to get into it, sans tickets.
Many host cities organize official fan zones with giant screens, entertainment, cultural activities, food, and soccer-themed games. Kids can experience the atmosphere alongside fans from around the world without needing a match ticket. Look for official events connected to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Host cities frequently organize international festivals, concerts, and cultural celebrations. Kids can collect flags, learn phrases in different languages, and experience traditions from countries around the world.
Host a World Cup Party: Invite friends to represent different countries, play small-sided games, and celebrate with snacks from around the world. This can be especially fun if your family can't travel to a host city.
Collect memorabilia you see!
Follow a Team's Journey: Choose a country and let kids become "superfans" for the tournament. They can learn about the players, geography, culture, and history while following each match.Give kids a passport booklet where they:Youth leagues, recreation departments, and soccer clubs often host:
Build a mini passport for the kids: Follow a different country each day, learn a few words in that country's language, try foods from participating nations, track scores and standings and collect stickers and flags
Check out my friend, Jennifer’s flag activity over on If You Give A Kid a Passport. The flag activity focuses on the teams represented in the games!
no matter what
Whether you're attending a match or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the World Cup offers an opportunity to learn about other cultures and countries as a family, which we love.