Knoxville may not be a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the Scruffy City is playing a role in the highly anticipated event — UT helped with the grass.

In honor of the University of Tennessee's role in the men's World Cup, we're sharing how you can participate in the fun right here in Knoxville.

Local watch parties

World Cup Fan Zone | June 12, June 25, July 11, July 19 | Times vary | Kern's Food Hall | Every World Cup match will be shown at Kern's, but a few of the biggest matches will turn into full-scale watch parties with bigger crowds, giveaways, and special activations.
Team USA Watch Party | June 19 | 1-6 p.m. | Market Square | Watch the US Men's National Team take on Australia.
Schulz Brau Watch Parties | All matches | Times vary | Schulz Brau Brewing Co. | Watch all 104 matches at this brewery with plenty of cold beer and giant screens.
Skybox Watch Parties | All matches | Times vary | Skybox Sports Bar and Grill | The Gay Street bar will extend its hours so that fans can watch every single game.
Soccer Taco Watch Parties | All matches | Times vary | Soccer Taco North Shore | Grab tacos and drinks while watching on the big screens.

Local events and specials

World Cup Fan Zone | Entirety of the tournament | Kern's Food Hall | Throughout the World Cup, Kern's will become Knoxville’s World Cup Headquarters; expect to see games showing every day of the tournament.

Road trip to participate

Both Chattanooga and Nashville will serve as team base camp training sites. In Chattanooga, the Baylor School will serve as Spain's "home away from home," while Nashville SC will be home base for Japan. If you plan to get in on the action by road-tripping to our Tennessee neighbors, consult our travel guide for local advice on what else to see.

Know of another local event, watch party, or World Cup special happening this summer? Let us know so we can add it to this article.