Chicago Fire Bringing 39-Day World Cup Celebration to West Loop This Summer
Chicago may not be hosting matches for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, but the city is still getting a major piece of the action. Chicago Fire FC is launching a 39-day soccer celebration in the West Loop, transforming a popular venue into a full-scale fan destination this summer.
The event will take over Recess, where fans can gather to watch every match of the tournament, from the opening game on June 11 through the final on July 19. While Chicago was not selected as a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026, this experience is designed to bring the energy of the global event directly to the city.
Throughout the tournament, Recess will be reimagined as a soccer-focused hub, featuring live broadcasts of every match alongside a packed schedule of fan experiences. Organizers are planning watch parties, live entertainment, guest appearances, giveaways and immersive activations, creating a festival-like atmosphere that goes beyond just watching the games.
The venue itself offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing fans to enjoy matches in a variety of settings, whether they’re looking for a high-energy crowd or a more relaxed viewing experience. Food and drink specials will also be part of the event, with menus inspired by both local favorites and international flavors tied to the tournament.
Chicago Fire FC sees the event as a way to bring the global soccer community together locally, even without official matches being played in the city.
“The World Cup is the pinnacle of our sport, and while Chicago isn’t a host city, we’re making sure it feels like one,” said Dan Moriarty, Chief Marketing Officer at Chicago Fire FC. “This summer, we’re inviting fans from across the country to experience the global game in a uniquely Chicago way. Recess will be the epicenter of soccer culture—a place where passion, community, and celebration come together.”
For those searching for things to do in Chicago this summer, this event stands out as one of the longest-running and most immersive experiences tied to the World Cup. It reflects a broader trend of cities creating large-scale watch events to capture the excitement of global tournaments, even without hosting official matches.
As soccer continues to grow in popularity across the U.S., events like this highlight Chicago’s role as a major market for the sport and a gathering place for fans from around the world.
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