LEXINGTON, Ky. — Mayor Linda Gorton announced a partnership with FOX 56 News and the Kentucky Theatre to host a free, family-friendly FIFA World Cup watch party at the historic downtown venue on June 25, according to a statement from the Mayor's Office.

The news conference took place at 2:30 p.m. in front of the Kentucky Theatre, located at 214 E. Main St., with Mayor Gorton, FOX 56 Sports Director Colby Wilson and a Kentucky Theatre representative participating in the announcement.

The watch party partnership comes as soccer fans across Lexington gather at local bars and restaurants to watch World Cup matches, with the tournament marking the first time the World Cup has been on U.S. soil since 1994. Lexington residents and local businesses have embraced the tournament, with some venues combining World Cup viewing with other entertainment options.

The free event at the Kentucky Theatre adds to the city's growing slate of World Cup viewing opportunities. The announcement was livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. Mayor Gorton said in the statement that the partnership reflects the city's commitment to bringing the community together around shared cultural and sporting events.

Gorton is serving her second term as Lexington Mayor after being re-elected in 2022 with 71% of the vote.