The FIFA World Cup 2026 is almost here, and it’s time to gear up for a summer filled with football magic, national pride, and utterly unforgettable moments! As the Three Lions prepare to take on the world across the USA, Canada and Mexico, let’s dive into the dates and fixtures you need to mark on your calendar — and some seriously epic party inspiration to make sure your World Cup celebrations go down in history. Let’s go!

 

England’s World Cup 2026 Fixtures

England have been drawn in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana and Panama. Here’s what’s in the diary — get those dates in NOW!

Group Stage Matches

Wed 17 June – England vs Croatia AT&T Stadium, Arlington (Dallas), Texas, USA 9pm BST

Tue 23 June – England vs Ghana Gillette Stadium, Foxborough (Boston), Massachusetts, USA 9pm BST

Sat 27 June –  Panama vs England MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford (New York/New Jersey), USA 10pm BST

Knockout Rounds: Depending on how the lads get on in the group stage, England’s journey could continue through the Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals and — dare we dream — the Final on Sunday 19 July at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey! The whole tournament runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026, so it’s going to be one long, glorious summer of football. Start stocking up now!

 

Party Inspiration: How to Host Like a Champion

Now you’ve got the dates locked in, it’s time to think about the most important part — the party! Whether you’re hosting a garden gathering or a full-on living room fan zone, here’s how to make every single match a proper occasion.

1. Prime Viewing Setup

First things first — get that screen sorted! With England’s kick-off times mostly hitting around 9–10pm BST, you’ll want a cosy setup with plenty of room for the whole squad. Think big screen, comfy seating, blankets for the nervy moments, and a drinks station stacked to the brim. And that drinks station? It needs to be seriously well-chilled. Load up your cool boxes and ice buckets with Party Ice from The Ice Co to keep every bottle perfectly cold from kick-off to the final whistle — and beyond!

2. Themed Decorations

Get into the World Cup spirit by going all out with the decorations! Hang up your St George’s Cross flags, drape the space in red and white, and scatter football-inspired motifs wherever you can. Think bunting, balloons, and even a few little foam footballs for the kids to keep themselves entertained during the tense bits. The more patriotic, the better — this is England’s moment!

3. Game-Day Booze and Snacks

Nothing says football like a cracking spread, right? Go classic British with easy bites like sausage rolls, pies, fish and chips, crisps and dips — the full works! Find our favourite quick recipe ideas here and keep those drinks flowing in style. Whether you’re going for cold beers and lagers, fresh lemonades, or fun cocktails and mocktails, there’s only one way to serve them — over ice. Stock up on Party Ice to keep drinks ice-cold right through to extra time. Because nobody wants a warm beer when England are 1–0 up!

4. Fun and Games

Keep the energy sky-high between matches (and during half time!) with some brilliant football-themed activities. Set up a keepy-uppy challenge in the garden, run a World Cup sweepstake, or fire up a prediction tournament with your mates. A DIY photo booth with England scarves, foam hands and flag props is always a guaranteed laugh — especially after a few cold ones! The vibes are immaculate, the drinks are chilled, and England are going all the way. What more do you need?!

 

 Don’t Forget the Ice!

Whether it’s a casual watch party or the full fan zone experience, Party Ice is your ultimate hosting essential. Keep drinks frosty, cool boxes topped up, and the good times rolling all the way to the final whistle. Find your nearest stockist here.

 

It’s Coming Home… Ice Cold!

So, what are you waiting for? Get those dates in the diary, rally the troops, grab your Party Ice, and get ready to cheer on England for what could be the most glorious summer of football we’ve ever seen. The World Cup 2026 is going to be absolutely legendary — and with a little help from The Ice Co, your watch parties will be too!

For more top hosting inspiration for the summer ahead, check out our Top Garden Party Essentials You Need In Your Life and make sure you try these 5 drinks designed for World Cup companionship.