Jan. 18, 2026 — Redmond, Wash. — The City of Redmond continues advancing its “Redmond’s Ready for the World” campaign to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighted by recent short-term rental updates and an upcoming public safety session, as nearby Seattle gears up to host six matches at Lumen Field from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
The campaign, launched in late September 2025, aims to engage residents, businesses, and visitors, expecting around 750,000 regional visitors, fostering community pride and economic opportunities.
“Redmond is Ready for the World reflects who we are as a city: welcoming, innovative, and connected,” Mayor Angela Birney said. “As we prepare for next summer, we are proud to showcase Redmond not only as a gateway to the global excitement, but also as a community that embraces diversity, supports our local businesses, and creates lasting connections.”
Join us from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at Redmond City Hall for the next Information and Strategy Session, focused on public safety, emergency preparedness, and community readiness ahead of the summer’s World Cup event. Plus, hear from Sounders legends James… pic.twitter.com/bRMUo7byPt
— City of Redmond (@CityOfRedmond) January 16, 2026
Key initiatives include the World Cup Watch Party Grant Program, offering $500 to $6,000 for community events in public spaces, with applications closing January 15, 2026. Eligible applicants encompass nonprofits, community groups, and businesses hosting live match viewings.
Recent activities featured a January 13 information session at City Hall on updated short-term rental rules enacted in December 2025 to meet visitor demand, presented by city staff and Airbnb representatives. A January 12 City News Now video updated residents on community readiness efforts.
Looking ahead, the city hosts “Let’s Get Match Ready: World Cup Information and Strategy Session” on February 9 at City Hall, covering public safety, emergency preparedness, and business strategies, with insights from Seattle Sounders legends James Riley and Brad Evans.
Earlier campaign highlights included the December 5 World Cup draw watch party at Archer Hotel, a Fútbol for All speaker series, and small business strategy sessions. The city anticipates leveraging new light rail access to boost Redmond’s role as a visitor gateway.
