From City of Reading
The City of Reading, in collaboration with Experience Reading & Berks County, and Philadelphia Soccer 2026, held a press conference on Tuesday, July 16, to remind residents and visitors that downtown Reading will host the Official Pennsylvania World Cup Fan Zone this July.
Hosted at Reading Arena (Santander Arena), the Reading Fan Zone will feature watch parties featuring Telemundo’s live FIFA World Cup 2026™ broadcasts on giant screens, and a family-friendly block party throughout the 500, 600, and 700 blocks of Penn Street.
Fans will be able to gather together to experience the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ with live entertainment, interactive games, activities, vendors, and food and beverage options for all ages in the heart of downtown Reading.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for our city, our downtown, and our local businesses,” said Mayor Eddie Morán. “We are excited to welcome residents and visitors downtown to celebrate one of the biggest sporting events in the world together as a community. These Fan Zone events will bring tremendous energy to our city and showcase Reading’s passion, diversity, and love for the game.”
The free Fan Zone experience will extend beyond the arena and into downtown Reading. Penn Street will host a World Cup Block Party featuring live entertainment, food vendors, interactive soccer experiences, and family-friendly activities throughout each event day.
Confirmed performers include Go Go Gadget on July 3, The Main Squeeze on July 18, Ax and the Hatchetmen and Sugar Ray on July 19 during World Cup Finals weekend. Additional performers and activities will be announced in the coming weeks.
Fans will also have the opportunity to participate in the 3v3 Anywhere activation on July 4 and July 18, bringing inflatable street soccer fields to downtown Reading for youth tournaments and hands-on soccer experiences.
Reading is also the only Pennsylvania Fan Zone that will broadcast all matches in Spanish through Telemundo, reflecting the city’s diverse and passionate soccer community.
Officials emphasized that public safety planning is already underway for all events.
“The safety of residents and visitors remains our top priority,” Mayor Morán added. “The Reading Police Department, Reading Fire Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and our public safety partners are working together to ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable experience for everyone attending these events.”
“FIFA World Cup 2026™ is an opportunity for local communities to come together and be part of a global moment as we also celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation,” said Meg Kane, Host City Executive/CEO, Philadelphia Soccer 2026. “The PA World Cup Fan Zones aim to help people across the Commonwealth feel connected to this historic moment and experience the energy of this incredible tournament in their own backyards. The Reading World Cup Fan Zone holds special meaning — in a city where Hispanic culture is woven into daily life, soccer is more than a sport, it’s a shared language. With programming and offerings in both English and Spanish, the Reading Fan Zone will be a place where residents and visitors of every background can celebrate the fandom and pride that soccer inspires around the world, while coming together to watch elite international competition on the big screen.”
Heather Zimmerman, President and CEO of Experience Reading & Berks County, said, “We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase the City of Reading and offer all the World Cup soccer excitement right here in Berks County. Make sure to register for your free ticket and experience all the fun and activities taking place during our watch parties.”
Pennsylvania World Cup Fan Zone Schedule – Reading, PA
- Friday, July 3 (11 a.m. – 7 p.m.), Arena doors open at noon
- 2 p.m. – Round of 32 Knockout Match
- 6 p.m. – Round of 32 Knockout Match
- Saturday, July 4 (11 a.m. – 7 p.m.), Arena doors open at 11 a.m.
- 1 p.m. – Round of 16 Knockout Match
- 5 p.m. – Round of 16 Knockout Match
- Saturday, July 18 (11 a.m. – 7 p.m.), Arena doors open at 3 p.m.
- 5 p.m. – World Cup Bronze Final
- Sunday, July 19 (11 a.m. – 7 p.m.), Arena doors open at 2 p.m.
- 3 p.m. – World Cup Final
The Pennsylvania World Cup Fan Zone is free to attend. Registration is encouraged.
For more information and to register, visit:
- experienceberks.com/worldcupfanzone
- https://www.universe.com/events/pennsylvania-world-cup-reading-fan-zone-tickets-M5VWH8
Food and retail vendors interested in participating in the block party can fill out the vendor interest form: form.jotform.com/261275027913153.
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