We have a great cultural opportunity coming up this June. The 2026 World Cup is coming to North America. This is the time to celebrate, compare, and contrast the cultures of the world. The World Cup is on of the few times in history when the focus of the world is on one event
Including soccer activities in your school day will bring the world’s culture to your students. Your kids can help you out by bringing what they see on TV into the classroom.
World Cup 2026
This event is history making. Not only is it the first time the event is split across 3 countries, but also it is the biggest number of teams to compete. Beginning June 11, forty-eight teams will travel, compete, and celebrate, all on one continent. The final match will take place on July 19, 2026.
Front Row Seat to Culture
There has never been a better moment for your students to see so many cultures at once. People around the world cling to their soccer traditions. They are deeply rooted in their culture. Your class will be able to compare and contrast customs in and around the matches. Culture is not an add-on here, it’s the main event!
These 48 teams will dance across the world stage, and their fans with them. As you explore these countries and cultures, your students will begin to see the recurring themes of Food, Fans, and National Pride.
Soccer Snacks
Every international soccer fan has their favorite soccer snacks. What’s more, there is usually a list of “must-haves” that completes the match. While you can find traditional snacks in the stands around the stadium, there are also concession stands inside. Food is on of the easiest ways to connect kids to culture.
Exploring the soccer snacks of different countries can be a great springboard to other traditional cooking. Your students can decide what they would like to try if they had the chance. This might also lead to more food traditions discussion. If you do a deep dive (AI) in Google, you can find food facts about each country.
Fan Favorites
Fan behavior is another theme you will see. You can tell the level of involvement by simply looking in the stands. The team colors, the special hats and scarves all show fan devotion. Each fan base has its favorite chants and cheers.
Some matches are almost rowdy. Other fans are more laid back. It all has much to do with the culture. Some team fans arrive together in a “Fan Walk” , while others trickle in, about 90 minutes after kickoff. You might see choreographed displays like mosaics, drum cadences, or stadium stomps. If you do a photo search of a certain team’s fans, you can learn a lot.
National Pride
Soccer is not just a game to these countries. It is an integral part of the country identity. Some nations are made up of many different cultures and languages. The citizens rally around the national team. Even if they fail to agree on anything else, they are one unit behind their team.
For most countries, qualifying for the World Cup is a national celebration. The fans carry their flag not just for the team, but because of every person at home that it represents.
Bring the World Cup into Your Classroom
You might need something to help you explore a different country every day. Or, maybe you need a resource at your kids’ reading level on each country so they can dive right in.
Either way, I’ve got you covered.
