FIFA World Cup Brings Big Plans for Houston’s LGBTQ Community
Pride moves to June 6 as Houston prepares to host seven matches.
As anticipation mounts worldwide for the 2026 FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) Men’s World Cup, Houston proudly prepares to join 15 other host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The soccer tournament will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, bringing the excitement of international soccer directly to Houston’s doorstep.
This edition of the World Cup is historic, featuring an expanded roster of 48 teams and a total of 104 matches. Houston’s NRG Stadium is scheduled to host seven of these games, taking place on June 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, 29, and July 4. The city expects a vibrant influx of fans and visitors, with teams and supporters traveling from Germany, Curacao, Portugal, the Netherlands, Uzbekistan, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and several other nations, depending on playoff outcomes.
In tandem with the World Cup, Houston’s annual LGBTQ Pride Parade and Festival will see a significant schedule adjustment in 2026. Traditionally held on the last Saturday of June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Inn Riots, this year’s Pride Parade will take place earlier—on Saturday, June 6, beginning at 7:00 p.m., with the festival occurring earlier that same day.