The World Cup Is Here and Topeka Is in on the Action

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, and for the first time in history, it is being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 48 teams and 104 matches running from June 11 through July 19, this is the biggest sporting event in the world landing right in our backyard. And you do not have to travel far to be part of it.

Here is everything you need to know about watching the World Cup this summer in and around Topeka.

Watch Parties at Evergy Plaza in Downtown Topeka

Topeka is hosting official World Cup watch parties right at Evergy Plaza on South Kansas Avenue in the heart of downtown. The city has matches scheduled throughout the tournament, and the biggest one is coming up fast.

USA vs. Turkey on June 25 at 9 PM is the one to circle on your calendar. This is the final group stage match for the U.S. Men's National Team, and Evergy Plaza is pulling out all the stops. There will be multiple food trucks on site including Todd's BBQ, DJ's Diner, JLG Mexi-Q, Twisted Treats, and others, plus a beer garden from Iron Rail Brewing and a live music performance starting at 7:15 PM before kickoff. This is a free, outdoor community event that should draw a big crowd.

There are also watch parties scheduled for the Algeria vs. Austria match on June 27 at 9 PM and additional matches throughout the tournament. Keep an eye on Visit Topeka's website for updates as the schedule builds out.

Kansas City Is 70 Miles Away and Worth the Trip

If you want a bigger experience, Kansas City is one of the 16 official World Cup host cities and has six matches being played at Arrowhead Stadium this summer. Even if you do not have match tickets, the city is packed with free events all tournament long.

The FIFA Fan Festival at the National WWI Museum and Memorial is the official fan hub. It runs 18 days across the tournament, with a massive outdoor screen, live entertainment, food, drinks, and interactive experiences. General admission is free, though a digital pass is required and space is limited to 25,000 per day.

Sporting Park's Soccer Capital Summer is another free option, with watch parties at the home of Sporting KC running through the Round of 32 and beyond. Registration is required, and spots go fast for big matches.

Kansas City also has matches at Arrowhead on the following dates:

• July 3 at 9:30 PM (Round of 32, Match 87)

If you are a die-hard fan and want to see live World Cup soccer in person, now is the time to check ticket availability.

How to Watch From Home

All 104 matches are being broadcast this summer across FOX and FS1 for English-language viewers. Every match is also available to stream on the FOX One app or through subscription services like YouTube TV, Fubo, or Hulu + Live TV. Spanish-language broadcasts are on Telemundo and Universo, with streaming available on Peacock.

The remaining U.S. group stage matches to watch for:

• USA vs. Turkey: June 25 at 9 PM CT on FOX

After the group stage, the knockout rounds begin June 28 and run through the World Cup Final on July 19.

Why This Matters Beyond Soccer

The 2026 World Cup is one of those rare moments where a global event feels local. Communities across the country are gathering, downtown districts are activating, and people who have never watched a soccer match in their lives are tuning in. Topeka being part of that story through events at Evergy Plaza says something good about where this city is heading.

It is also a reminder of what draws people to communities like ours. Topeka is a city with a strong sense of place, and summers like this one are a big part of why people put down roots here.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Topeka, we would love to talk about what life in this market really looks like. The Habiger Team knows this community and would be glad to help you find your place in it.

Reach out anytime at thehabigerteam.com or give us a call.

The Habiger Team | Keller Williams One Legacy Partners | Topeka, Kansas