BETHLEHEM, Pa. – It’s a big day for soccer fans across the world.

All eyes were on the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, DC for the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw. 

The United States is one of the host nations for this year’s Cup.

Back home, local fans packed the SteelStacks in Bethlehem for a watch party.

Since 2014, non-profit organization ArtsQuest has hosted their World Cup draw watch party and this year did not disappoint.

69 News Reporter Cierra Genelle met local soccer players, coaches and fans who can’t contain their excitement.

“Go USA,” said Gary Hind, a soccer fan.

In the Lehigh Valley, team spirit is strong on and off the field.

“It’s just the beginning,” said Roberto Carrizo, a soccer fan.

“We’re watching the draw, and we’re here. We’re excited,” said Hind.

Hind is enjoying the watch party, with some of his closest friends. He’s rooting for the two teams that hold a special place in his heart.

“We’re hoping that America gets a good a good bracket,” said Hind. “But I’m also supporting my country, England. I’m a dual citizen, but I do support England. I think England is going to go pretty far this year.”

He’s joining his friend, Carrizo, a fellow former soccer player, who now coaches for Eastern Northampton County Soccer Club.

After playing the field himself, “I’m basically paying it forward,” said Carrizo.

Now he’s hoping to watch World Cup magic in his own backyard.

“Hopefully they we have a game either New Jersey, Philadelphia, anywhere that’s closer we can actually, get out there and do what we have to do,” said Carrizo.

Lehigh University soccer player Landon Bealer is also hoping to score tickets to a game.

“I’m going to try, but whether I can go there, work there, I’ll try and figure out some way to get involved. If not, I’ll certainly be watching as many games as possible,” said Bealer.

Drinks, snacks and fun soccer themed giveaways entertain the crowd while the draw echoed through Bethlehem SteelStacks.

“The popcorn is really good,” said Daniella Oviedo, a soccer fan.

It’s just the start of next summer’s line up of events and programs for ArtsQuest and the beginning of soccer history for diehard fans.

“Let’s do this,” said Hind. “Very excited to see what happens next.”

After the watch party, the Eastern PA Youth Soccer Association hosted a community soccer clinic for coaches and players.