Philadelphia marks 100 days until the World Cup as 2026 summer events take shape

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A pep rally in Center City Philadelphia on Tuesday marked 100 days until World Cup action begins, highlighting what organizers say will be a busy and celebratory summer across the city.

The event launched the Philadelphia Soccer 2026 committee's "How Do You Phan?" campaign, an initiative aimed at engaging both longtime soccer fans and newcomers ahead of the tournament.

Meg Kane, CEO of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, said the campaign is designed to help people connect with the teams and the broader global spirit of the event.

"'How Do You Phan?' is the opportunity for diehard soccer fans, but also the soccer-curious to be able to learn about the teams that are coming, find that rooting interest, and feel part of the cross-cultural exchange that's really once in a lifetime," Kane said.

Philadelphia's professional sports mascots attended the rally, along with Eagles player Brandon Graham, who also took part in the celebration.

"We got 100 days until the World Cup comes. I just want to get everybody excited. Can't wait to see how Philly represents, because we are going to represent in a big way," Graham said.

The World Cup countdown comes as the city also prepares for events tied to America's 250th anniversary.

The 250th Historic District Committee continues its "52 Weeks of Firsts" initiative, which highlights historic milestones that took place in Philadelphia, including the nation's first - and still running - flower show.

Those efforts are building toward what organizers describe as a memorable Independence Day week.

Amy Needle, president and CEO of Historic Philadelphia, said one of the featured events will be the "Red, White, and Blue To Do" celebration on July 2.

"Where there is a kids parade, there's a block party, there's musical performances throughout the day at different historical institutions," Needle said.

That day will conclude with the Wawa Welcome America concert and a drone show.

Meanwhile, the first World Cup game in Philadelphia is scheduled for Sunday, June 14, with Ivory Coast set to play Ecuador at Lincoln Financial Field.