Supporting nine FIFA World Cup 2026™ fan zones across Washington

As Washington prepares to welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Airbnb is announcing a new community investment initiative designed to bring the excitement – and economic benefits – of the tournament to communities across the state.

Through the World to Washington initiative, Airbnb is providing $40,000 grants to Official Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zones in Bellingham, Bremerton, Everett, Olympia, Spokane, Tacoma, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Yakima.

In total, Airbnb’s grants to Official SeattleFWC26 Fan Zones across Washington state represent a more than $360,000 contribution supporting local celebrations, community gathering spaces, and fan-focused programming during the tournament.

“The FIFA World Cup is a huge moment for Washington—something we might only see once in a generation. At Airbnb, we want to help everyone in our state be part of the excitement. That’s why we’re proud to be supporting Fan Zones, so people all across Washington can experience the tournament close to home. It’s a great way for local businesses and communities to share in the energy and opportunities this incredible event brings.”

 Airbnb Chief Business Officer Dave Stephenson

“Airbnb’s generous contribution is exactly the kind of community investment that will make Seattle’s World Cup experience truly special. This support helps us bring the energy and excitement of the tournament directly to neighborhoods across Washington, creating fan experiences where locals and visitors alike can come together to celebrate the beautiful game.” 

Peter Tomozawa, CEO, SeattleFWC26

“We’re grateful to Airbnb for sponsoring Bellingham as a destination for soccer fans this summer. We can’t wait for people from across the country and the world to experience the watch parties and business activations our community has in store—as well as the incredible trails, parks, and people that make our corner of Washington State so special.” 

Dylan Deane-Boyle, President and CEO, Visit Bellingham

“With Airbnb as our presenting sponsor, we’re transforming downtown Bremerton into a world-class Fan Zone — complete with a giant LED screen at Quincy Square, family-friendly activities, beer gardens, food trucks, and unforgettable match-day energy that makes it easy to turn a ferry ride from Seattle into an overnight Bremerton experience.”

Jessica Combs, Executive Director of the Downtown Bremerton Association and Activation Manager for the Official Bremerton SeattleFWC26 Fan Zone

“The local fan zone host committee would like to thank Airbnb for their generous grant supporting Fan Zones across the State.  These monies will help us enhance our fan zone experiences to engage our community and travelers who wish to join us in Yakima for the Fan Zone experience.”

Yakima City Councilmember Patricia Byers

“Spokane is proud to host the SeattleFWC26 Fan Zone, creating opportunities for our community to come together and experience the excitement of the World Cup right here at home. Partnership with Airbnb help make these moments approachable, welcoming, and community-driven.”

Ashley Blake, CEO, Spokane Sports

“We’re proud to partner with Airbnb as a sponsor of our Everett Fan Zone! This collaboration highlights Everett as a welcoming destination for soccer fans from near and far while also creating meaningful economic opportunities for our local businesses. Together, we are preparing to bring the world to Everett and showcase our city’s beauty, spirit and hospitality at our waterfront Fan Zone this June.”

City of Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin

Supporting communities through the Host City Impact Program

World to Washington is part of Airbnb’s $5 million Host City Impact Program, which builds on Airbnb’s multi-tournament partnership with FIFA to support fans and communities leading up to the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Through the Host City Impact Program, Airbnb is collaborating with select cities to identify projects that foster economic growth, strengthen neighborhoods, and enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors during major sporting events and beyond. 

FIFA World Cup 2026™ travel expected to deliver $260M in economic impact in Seattle

Recent analysis underscores the scale of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ tournament’s anticipated impact across the region.

During the tournament period, Airbnb hosts in and around Seattle are projected to welcome approximately 23,000 guests, helping absorb demand beyond traditional hotel zones and spreading visitor spending into local communities.

According to analysis conducted by Deloitte,¹ Airbnb guest travel tied to the World Cup in Seattle is expected to generate:

• An estimated $260M in total economic output across Seattle and nearby areas
• Nearly $19M in total host earnings, averaging roughly $3,800 per host during the tournament window
• Roughly $138M in value added to GDP in and around Seattle.