Pike Place Market Prepares to Welcome the World with World Cup Programming

SEATTLE – With the FIFA Men’s World Cup right around the corner, Pike Place Market invites visitors to experience the Market like never before with new events and opportunities to explore the Market’s more than 500 small, independent businesses. The Market is eager to showcase the best of Seattle’s culture and invites both locals and international visitors to discover cuisine, art, and merchandise from around the globe in one iconic setting.
Positioned as a central gathering place during SEA26, Pike Place Market will offer expanded programming that will highlight the diversity and spirit of Seattle for those experiencing the Market for the first time or the hundredth time.

Welcoming the World Night Market
On Thursday, June 18, from 5 pm – 10 pm, the Market will host a lively evening of with food, shopping, music, and community. Visitors can browse more than 60 local craftspeople, 20 food vendors, and 13 farmers, watch live art demos, and participate in games and activities for all ages. Live music from KEXP’s Lace Cadence will keep the energy and fun of the evening going. Additionally, more than 20 Market businesses will extend their hours for a unique after-hours experience. This event invites locals to rediscover the Market and celebrate alongside visitors from around the globe. For more information and to see the full list of participating vendors and businesses, visit the event page.

Live! Match Day at the Market
On Friday, June 19, from noon to 2:30 pm, celebrate the World Cup fanfare with a watch party for the U.S. vs. Australia match. A 17-foot screen on the north end of Pike Place near Starbucks will bring fans together to watch the game on the cobblestones. Attendees can enjoy snacks and beverages from Market eateries, participate in the Sip and Savor outdoor alcohol program, and experience the excitement of opening week in one of Seattle’s most iconic locations. For more information visit the event page.

World Cup Watch Parties
Pike Place Market will continue the celebration with free match screenings in the Atrium. From June 11 through July 19 from 9 am to 5 pm, matches will be streamed (with the sound off) in the public seating area near the Atrium Kitchen and LEOLO Handmade Shoes & Leather Goods. Grab a snack or a meal and enjoy a match in the Market’s largest indoor public seating area.

The Market invites locals to the Community Watch Party that will take place in the MarketFront Pavilion:
• June 25 from 7 pm to 9 pm: Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, enjoy food from the Market’s Artisan Prepared Food (APF) Program, and take in views of Elliot Bay while watching the match.

Enjoy the Sip & Savor Program
Starting Friday, June 5, visitors can purchase alcoholic beverages from participating Market businesses and enjoy them throughout designated outdoor areas. With expanded seasonal outdoor seating, the Market is an ideal place to connect, relax, and savor the exciting atmosphere of the Market and its 9-acre historic district.

The program will run Fridays through Sundays from noon to 5 pm through Labor Day weekend. For more information on the Sip & Savor program, read the blog.

New Market Ambassador Program
This summer, a new volunteer initiative will place friendly, knowledgeable ambassadors throughout the Market to assist visitors with directions, answer questions, and enhance visitor experience. Spot them in distinctive red vests and hats. The program is continuing to recruit volunteers for the program – learn more and apply on the website.

For more information on planning your Market Day during the World Cup, visit the SEA26 resource page.

Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority PDA
The nine-acre historic district is maintained and operated by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA), a nonprofit public corporation created by the City of Seattle in 1973. The PDA supports the Market’s remarkable community by increasing farm and food retailing opportunities, supporting small and marginal businesses, and providing services for low-income individuals. In addition, PDA helps protect the essence of the Market by preserving, rehabilitating and maintaining the buildings within the Market. PikePlaceMarket.org
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For media inquiries
Mya Acosta Senior PR & Communications Specialist
E: Mya.Acosta@PikePlaceMarket.org
P: (206) 724-8142