World Cup Fever Hits Santa Barbara County: Where to Watch Team USA

As the FIFA World Cup kicks off in the United States, Santa Barbara County is rolling out the red, white and blue carpet for soccer fans with free community watch parties and dozens of venues ready to host the action.

Free Community Watch Parties

The U.S. Men’s National Team opens its World Cup campaign against Paraguay on Friday, June 12, and local officials are ensuring fans have plenty of options to cheer on Team USA together.

A sparkling send-off to the stadium! ✨ pic.twitter.com/HfQ8LoiKc0

— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 12, 2026

Santa Barbara Public Library Plaza

Santa Barbara County 1st District Supervisor Roy Lee, in partnership with the Santa Barbara Public Library and the City of Santa Barbara, is hosting two free outdoor watch parties at Library Plaza, located at 40 E. Anapamu Street.

The first event on June 12 opens at 5:00 p.m. with kickoff at 6:00 p.m. A second watch party for the USA vs. Türkiye match on June 25 will open at 6:00 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. kickoff.

Artificial grass will be laid in the plaza to create a soccer atmosphere, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnics. Sweet treats will be available from a local dessert truck.

“The world is coming to the United States for the biggest sporting event on the planet,” said Supervisor Lee. “And we have two teams training right here in Santa Barbara County. These watch parties are an opportunity to celebrate the World Cup and cheer on Team USA with friends and neighbors.”

Goleta Community Center

The City of Goleta is hosting its own free, family-friendly watch party on June 12 at the Goleta Community Center (5679 Hollister Ave). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the USA vs. Paraguay match, featuring a giant screen, fun activities, and free tacos and burritos from Don Pepe’s Mexican Food while supplies last.

Attendance is limited to the first 300 guests, and no outside beverages or alcohol are permitted. Additional food will be available for purchase.

The event holds special significance as Team Austria has made Goleta its home base during the tournament.

Bars, Restaurants and Venues Hosting Watch Parties

Beyond the free community events, venues across downtown Santa Barbara and the Funk Zone are embracing World Cup fever:

Downtown Santa Barbara

• The Press Room on Ortega Street is the go-to destination for the city’s most passionate soccer fans, complete with memorabilia, scarves and Guinness on tap
• M. Special Brewing Company on State Street offers an expansive taproom with views from every seat
• O’Malley’s Bar features a classic dark wood bar and open-air patio
• Baja Sharkeez pairs colorful cantina decor with televisions lining the walls
• The Arlington Theatre plans to host the biggest matches on its massive cinema screen in the historic 2,000-seat venue
• Cooney’s inside the Santa Barbara Public Market will hold lively watch parties throughout the competition

The Funk Zone/Waterfront

• Finney’s Crafthouse & Kitchen offers large-format screens just one block from the beach
• Validation Ale features communal tables and an indoor-outdoor atmosphere
• Longboards Grill on Stearns Wharf provides panoramic harbor and coastline views
• Mar Monte Hotel is hosting viewings at Costa and Lido daily, plus select screenings in the Fireside Ballroom, with World Cup-inspired cocktails like the Blueberry Smash Goal and Final Whistle Old Fashioned

Wine Country & International Flair

• Margerum Wine Company has transformed its upstairs mezzanine into a FIFA Lounge with scheduled viewings on June 12, 14 and 15
• Buena Onda becomes a hub for Argentina supporters, with its breezy patio awash in light blue during matches

“Whether you’re a lifelong soccer fan or just looking for a fun night out, everyone is welcome,” said Supervisor Lee. “We’ll see you there!”