The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to Seattle, and ParentMap is thrilled to help families access the action and excitement of this once-in-a-lifetime event. As your go-to hub for the World Cup in Seattle, our family-friendly guide has everything you need to engage with your kids, whether you’re heading to a match or cheering from afar, for locals and visitors alike.
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Start here: Planning USA World Cup with kids
The city of Seattle will host six FIFA World Cup matches between June 15–July 6, 2026, bringing an electric atmosphere to the Emerald City. For families, the tournament is a rare chance to experience world-class soccer together, whether inside Seattle Stadium or at watch parties and fan events across the region. Here’s how to make the most of it with kids.
Quick tips for families:
- Match days will bring large crowds downtown; public transit will be the easiest way to reach Seattle Stadium.
- Many FIFA-related events will be free and open to the public, including these family-friendly events curated by our calendar editor.
- Watch parties and celebrations will take place throughout the Seattle area.
Taking kids to a FIFA World Cup match in Seattle 
Going to the game? These resources help families plan the full experience.
No tickets? Families can still enjoy FIFA World Cup excitement 
Even if you don’t have tickets to a match, there will be plenty of ways for families to join the excitement.
- Head out to a local venue or event that welcomes kids
- Take your kids to an official experience or fan celebration
- Get in the spirit at the pre-event pep rally on June 3
- Play games and explore Seattle with the FIFA Sea&Win app
- Explore family-friendly treats for your FIFA watch party
Plan your visit
FAQs for families
General questions
Can kids attend FIFA matches?
Yes! Matches will be crowded and high-energy. Families should plan ahead for seating, arrival time and transportation.
Do children of all ages need their own tickets?
Children will need their own tickets to enter the stadium on match day, except for a “baby in arms” in accordance with the Terms of Use. According to the Terms of Use, a “baby in arms” is defined as any child who is 2-years-old or younger on the day of the match and no taller than 34 inches (86 cm).
If your child meets the “baby in arms” requirement, they may enter the stadium without their own ticket, provided they sit on your lap and you (as the ticket holder) hold a valid ticket. A “baby in arms” cannot occupy their own seat and you may bring only one “baby in arms.” Note that ticket holders in standing sections (if applicable) are not allowed to bring a “baby in arms.” If your child does not meet the criteria for “baby in arms,” they must have their own ticket to enter the stadium.
How long is a game?
A soccer match lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime.
Are there free FIFA events in Seattle?
Yes. Fan festivals, watch parties and community events are expected across the region. See our list of family-friendly events above for options.
What are the extras families who are attending a match should bring?
- Fitted earmuffs and earplugs: It’s worth noting that the Seattle Stadium (as Lumen Field) once set a record for the loudest outdoor sports stadium at 137.6 decibels. Fan noise has even registered as seismic activity multiple times over the years. Ear protection for young kids is a must.
- Sunscreen: While the majority of seats in Seattle Stadium are protected from the elements, it’s still important to protect against the sun. Put a layer of sunscreen on at home before you head to the game, and then reapply every two hours or as needed. Bring lotion or stick sunscreen, as aerosol cans are not permitted.
- Comfortable shoes: Plan for a lot of walking at the stadium. Make sure the whole family is wearing shoes that fit comfortably.
Is there parking close to the stadium? Can we book a spot in advance?
All FIFA World Cup parking passes must be purchased online in advance, at least 24 hours prior to kickoff for each match. Parking passes are available for purchase online. No on-site payments available.
Note that all parking locations are situated outside the stadium’s security perimeter due to operational and safety requirements.
Parking passes may only be purchased using the email address associated with a ticket purchase made through FIFA, including the FIFA Resale Platform. Each ticket holder may purchase one parking pass per match. On match day, fans will be required to present both their valid match ticket and parking pass to access parking areas. Ticket holders are strongly encouraged to finalize their transportation plans in advance and, where available, consider mass transit options to help ensure a smooth arrival and the opportunity to enjoy the full scope of match-day activities. Given the scale and significance of FIFA World Cup matches, fans are advised to arrive at the stadium at least 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff.
Seattle Stadium questions
Note: Even if you’ve attended games at Lumen Field before — it is home to Seahawks, Sounders and Reign teams, after all — some of the rules differ for the FIFA World Cup matches played here.
Can I bring a stroller into Seattle Stadium?
No. Strollers will not be allowed into the stadium.
What is the clear bag policy, and how does it affect what parents can bring for kids?
All bags brought to the stadium must be clear and made of plastic, vinyl or PVC material — including diaper bags. This allows security personnel to easily see the bag’s contents without opening it. Bags must not exceed 12 x 6 x 12 inches (30 x 30 x 15 centimeters). Additionally, small clutch purses or wallets approximately the size of a hand are allowed, even if not clear and no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches (or 11 x 16.5 centimeters).
Can families bring signs, flags, face paint, banners or any oversized items into the stadium?
Any flags, banners or posters brought into the stadium must be made of nonflammable material and must not exceed 78 inches x 60 inches (2 meters x 1.5 meters) and are subject to inspection at the stadium entrance. They must adhere to the stadium’s code of conduct, and may not have any political, offensive or discriminatory language or symbols. They cannot be on poles or sticks. Face paint is allowed. Note that body paint cannot be used instead of clothing.
Is Seattle Stadium cashless?
Lumen Field operates as a cashless venue, so visitors should plan for the same policy during the World Cup. Only cards and contactless payment methods are accepted at concessions, retail, parking and vendors. Cash-to-card kiosks are located throughout the stadium if you need to convert cash to a prepaid card.
Can you bring your own food or beverages?
Outside food and beverages are not permitted, with the exception of: Baby milk, sterilized water and food for babies or young infants in containers not exceeding 33.8 ounces (1 liter) per child Liquids up to 16.9 ounces (500 milliliters) and food items that are required for medical reasons, presented with a medical certificate and in the presence of the person for whom they are intended
Where are the restrooms with baby-changing stations located?
Baby-changing stations are located in all family restrooms throughout Seattle Stadium. Family restrooms are located on the Main Concourse at sections 118 and 126; in the 360 Club level at sections 212, 215, 222 and 232; in the Suite Level across from Suite 36; and in the upper level at sections 302, 315, 322 and 343.
Are there nursing and pumping stations at the stadium?
Pumping equipment is allowed at Seattle Stadium. Locations are as follows:
- Section 105: Mamava Pod on Main Concourse.
- Sections 206/238: In between North restrooms, either side of club level
- Rainier Suite Level: Directly off Rainier elevator
- Section 327: Mamava Pod on Concourse
Each lounge is a private space where guests can nurse, pump and spend some quite time. Each space has warm lighting and is equipped with electrical outlets. Only the Nursing Lounge on Rainier Suite level has a hand washing sink.
What happens if a child gets separated from the group?
Make a plan in advance for where to meet if you get separated in the crowds (such as Guest Services), and talk about how to identify a stadium staff member and ask for help.
You can also consider keeping an AirPod, AirTag, or other Bluetooth-enabled tracker in kids’ pockets. Spend time every day with kids memorizing and repeating your phone number, and consider getting a bracelet with contact information ahead of the match.
Thank you to our FIFA World Cup family guide presenting sponsor:
Photo credit: FIFA