As fans gear up for the 2026 USL League Two season, Ballard FC has released their Theme Night schedule as they aim to make year five an unforgettable experience. This year, the club is celebrating everything from local art, to music in our community, Ballard’s Nordic culture, and much more. Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and join Ballard FC in making each match a special occasion in the club’s fifth year.
1. Home Opener – Friday, May 15th
Kick off the season in style as Ballard FC face off with the only club in the league as old as them, FC Olympia from the State’s capital, at 7:30 PM. Ballard FC is aiming for the club’s fourth straight Northwest Division Title and that starts with the season opener. For this match the gates will open early at 5:30pm so that fans can enjoy all of the pre-match festivities and watch Salmon Bay FC’s season opener on the Beer Garden TVs as they also take on FC Olympia but on the road. Like every match, Interbay Stadium will have a full lineup of food vendors, games, activities and more. You’re not going to want to miss this one!
2. Nordic Night – Friday, May 29th
Nordic Night celebrates Ballard’s Nordic heritage in this match by featuring the National Nordic Museum, and other groups to highlight this key part of Ballard’s history. This year, will be an extra special Nordic Night as Ballard FC will wear their new “Nordic Kits.” The 2026 Away Kit and Goalkeeper Kit both feature prominent Nordic designs throughout the jerseys. Despite these kits being for Ballard FC’s away matches, the club will make an exception for Nordic Night and dawn the red and black kits at Interbay Stadium to take on Midlakes United.
3. Music Night – Saturday, June 6th
The volume is getting turned up in June with Music Night as both Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC will take on Portland in this Saturday of soccer double header! The Ballard FC v. Portland Bangers Match will be the second match of the double header with Salmon Bay FC hosting league newcomers, the Portland Cherry Bombs, earlier in the day. Get ready for a day filled with tunes and beats fueled by KEXP and featuring the Ballard High School marching band at halftime. Purchase the double header ticket bundle!
4. USA v. Australia Night – Thursday, June 18th
With the World Cup coming to Seattle this summer, Ballard FC is excited to welcome fans from all across the globe to the Pagliacci Pitch at Interbay Stadium. This match will be the night before the US Men’s National Team takes on Australia, and so the club will preview the action with a USA v Australia themed night at Interbay Stadium. We’re calling it the “unofficial undercard”. Wear your USA or Australia jersey and watch Ballard FC take on Bigfoot FC. Meet some Aussie soccer fans and get into the World Cup spirit for this midweek match.
5. Artist Night – Wednesday, June 24th
Join Ballard FC in a celebration of local art as the club takes on local rivals West Seattle Junction on this Wednesday afternoon with a 4pm kickoff. This match is the first of a double feature as Salmon Bay FC will take on the Tacoma Galaxy at 7:30pm later that night. The players will be wearing their full Artist Kits which will be revealed later this month. You’ll get to meet the featured artist and grab an autograph at the match! There will be kids art activities and more as both clubs celebrate art in the community as part of their annual artist collaboration series. Purchase the double header ticket bundle!
6. Pride – Saturday, July 5th
Soccer is a sport for all and Ballard FC works hard to help everyone feel included. This year, Ballard FC is hosting a Pride Match to celebrate the neighborhood’s LGBTQ+ community. Join the club in a celebration of diversity and inclusion when as they host the Tacoma Stars on July 5th. This day is about community, unity, and the positive impact of sports beyond the field.
7. Fan Appreciation Day – Saturday, July 12th
To end the regular season, Ballard FC wants to say a big thank you to all of you, the fans, on Fan Appreciation Day against Snohomish United. Expect giveaways, fan shoutouts, and exclusive interactions with players and staff. It’s the club’s turn to give back to the incredible supporters who stand by Ballard FC all season long.
We can’t wait to see you at the stadium for each themed match, celebrating and supporting our beloved Ballard FC. Let’s make this season one to remember! Get your tickets now at the link below.
Written by Max Dresbach
