
World Cup Watch Party in San Jose Draws Record Crowds, Boosts Local Business
A surprise surge of supporters turned San Jose’s San Pedro Square into a festive arena, where the owner of Sushi Confidential said sales eclipsed those of six Super Bowls.
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A surprise surge of supporters turned San Jose’s San Pedro Square into a festive arena, where the owner of Sushi Confidential said sales eclipsed those of six Super Bowls.

During the six‑week FIFA World Cup, San Jose recorded close to one million downtown visits, driven by watch parties hosted with Major League Soccer and the San Jose Earthquakes. The surge revived local businesses, yet large crowds also sparked safety incidents that officials are working to address.

The city moved its biggest World Cup viewing event from San Pedro Square Market to Discovery Meadow and the SAP Center, drawing enthusiastic supporters and notable local figures.

U.S. Soccer selects San Pedro Square Market for a high‑profile World Cup watch party, highlighting San Jose’s deep soccer roots and the Earthquakes’ growing influence.

Nearly 25,000 supporters filled San Pedro Square for Mexico’s match against South Korea, prompting the San Jose Sports Authority to expand screens and launch a new app to guide fans to watch parties, restaurants and parking.

A partnership between the San Jose Earthquakes, city officials and local authorities will broadcast every World Cup match on massive screens, offer themed food, family activities and meet‑and‑greets with soccer legends, promising significant economic benefits for the city.

The Professional Women’s Hockey League announced its entry into San Jose for the 2026‑27 season, securing a venue at SAP Center and training facilities at Sharks Ice, while highlighting the region’s deep hockey roots and commitment to women’s sports.