World Cup Community Watch Parties and Cultural Celebration Events

The City of Lawrence (City) is a host city for the 2026 World Cup and is seeking proposals from qualified individuals, organizations, and entities to design, produce, and manage World Cup–related community events and watch parties during the tournament period.

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to provide an equitable opportunity for all interested and qualified proposers to submit creative, inclusive, and impactful event concepts that promote community engagement, celebrate global culture, and generate positive economic impact within Lawrence.

These events are intended to serve as safe, family-friendly, and culturally enriching gatherings that bring residents and visitors together to celebrate international sport, cultural diversity, and Lawrence’s role as a host city for a World Cup Base Camp team.

• The awardee will need to comply with any trademark and branding restrictions as outlined by the official guidebook. If compliance is not followed, the awardee (and not the City of Lawrence) shall be liable for any violations.

The City of Lawrence, Kansas, is honored to serve as a host city for the 2026 World Cup, welcoming a World Cup Base Camp team and joining a global network of communities celebrating one of the world’s most significant sporting events. This designation presents a unique opportunity for Lawrence to showcase its vibrant cultural identity, strong sense of community, and commitment to inclusive, high-quality public programming on an international stage.

Lawrence is widely recognized for its dynamic arts and culture scene, engaged residents, family-friendly amenities, and strong tradition of hosting successful community events. As a World Cup host city, Lawrence seeks to build upon these strengths by creating accessible, welcoming, and culturally enriching experiences that reflect the global spirit of the tournament while remaining grounded in local values.

The City is therefore seeking proposals from qualified individuals, organizations, and entities to design, produce, and manage World Cup–related community events and watch parties throughout the tournament period. These events are envisioned as safe, inclusive, and engaging gatherings that bring together residents, visitors, and international guests to celebrate global sport, cultural diversity, and Lawrence’s role in the World Cup.

In addition to fostering community pride and cultural exchange, the City intends for these events to generate positive economic impact for local businesses, artists, vendors, and hospitality partners. Successful proposals will demonstrate creativity, operational excellence, and a strong understanding of Lawrence’s community character, while advancing the City’s goals of equity, accessibility, and broad public engagement.

Through this Request for Proposals, the City of Lawrence seeks to provide an equitable opportunity for all interested and qualified proposers to contribute innovative concepts that enhance the World Cup experience, strengthen community connections, and leave a lasting positive legacy for Lawrence beyond the tournament itself.