READING, BERKS CO. (WOLF) — Soccer fans in northeastern Pennsylvania will have a front-row seat to the world’s biggest sporting event next summer — both on the ground in Scranton and on their screens.

State officials announced that Scranton will host an official Pennsylvania World Cup Fan Zone during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing large crowds to Lackawanna County Courthouse Square for free public watch parties. At the same time, FOX56 will broadcast every World Cup match, giving viewers across the region complete access to the tournament.

The Scranton Fan Zone will transform Courthouse Square into a central hub for the knockout rounds, featuring a large outdoor screen, live entertainment, food vendors, and interactive fan experiences. Events are scheduled for early July, including matches leading up to the World Cup Final.

Leaders say the goal is to bring the excitement of the global tournament beyond Philadelphia — one of the official host cities — and into communities across the state.

Scranton is one of three cities selected for Fan Zones, alongside Pittsburgh and Reading. Officials expect thousands of fans to gather downtown for the matches, with the site capable of holding up to 5,000 people.

The local Fan Zone will host multiple watch parties between July 4 and July 19, including the tournament’s final match.

While fans can gather in person, those unable to attend will still be able to follow every moment of the action. FOX56 will carry all World Cup games, ensuring full coverage from the opening matches through the championship.

Organizers say the combination of live events in Scranton and full broadcast coverage will give fans across northeastern Pennsylvania more ways than ever to be part of the World Cup experience.

SCRANTON FAN ZONE

Lackawanna County Courthouse Square

N. Washington Avenue & Linden Street, Scranton, PA

Fan Zone EventsSaturday, July 4, 11 am – 6 pm

1 pm: Round of 16 Knockout Match

5 pm: Round of 16 Knockout Match

Sunday, July 5, 2 pm – 9 pm

4 pm: Round of 16 Knockout Match

8 pm: Round of 16 Knockout Match

Monday, July 6, 1 pm – 11 pm

3 pm: Round of 16 Knockout Match

8 pm: Round of 16 Knockout Match

Saturday, July 18, 3 pm – 8 pm

5 pm: World Cup Bronze Final

Sunday, July 19, 2 pm – 6 pm

3 pm: World Cup Final