With the countdown to the World Cup matches down to its final hours, host areas like the Bay Area are buzzing with frantic, last-minute preparations for massive watch parties.

Organizers are putting the finishing touches on the official downtown San Jose watch party at San Pedro Square, a joint effort between the city and the San Jose Earthquakes. The event features artificial turf and two massive television screens, including one measuring 27 feet.

Tens of thousands of fans are expected to flood the downtown area.

“I think the spirit and the mood are going to be incredibly exciting,” said Jared Shawlee, president of the San Jose Earthquakes. “We’ve already had over 20,000 RSVPs for the game tomorrow, Mexico vs. South Africa at noon. We’re at 15,000 RSVPs for the USA game on Friday night, so the mood will be incredible.”

The San Pedro Square event is designed to create a central gathering spot for soccer fans while giving a major economic boost to downtown businesses.

Local business owners say the tournament’s scale sets it apart from other major sporting events.

“I think, you know, for the U.S. games… the big teams like Mexico, Colombia, England, Germany, Italy… I think it’s gonna be, like, big,” said David Mulvehill, a partner at O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub. “I think those games gonna draw a huge crowd… and obviously the bars are gonna be full on San Pedro.”

For local families, the community atmosphere is a draw, but the true excitement lies in the tournament’s high stakes.

“There’s all these countries… and it’s really fun to watch because it’s so competitive,” said Joseph Quiroz of San Jose, adding that he is rooting for Spain.

While San Pedro Square is expected to be a primary destination, it will not be the only place for fans to gather. Neighborhood watch parties are being organized throughout the South Bay.

The Directors’ Alliance San Jose is coordinating events across 11 business districts, including Willow Glen, Alum Rock, Japantown, and the Monterey corridor.

“You can enjoy cultural events,” said Helen Masamori, co-director of the Directors’ Alliance San Jose and representative of the Alum Rock Business Association. “We’re gonna have dance, music, food, and each district… 11 of us… are gonna have their own watch parties.”

Because the tournament spans more than a month, organizers are encouraging fans to explore different venues across the city.

“There’s so many games… over a period of over a month,” said Shyam Panchal of the Monterey Corridor Improvement District. “Absolutely go to San Pedro Square… come down to the Plant… go down to the Mexican Heritage Plaza… go where you wanna see and have a new adventure, a new journey.”

Officials urge attendees to check the websites of the San Jose Earthquakes, the city of San Jose or local business districts to RSVP and find information on what items are permitted at the venues.