Here's where you can get free 2026 World Cup 'Fan Bands' and tasty themed cupcakes in the Bay Area

PLEASANT HILL, Calif. (KGO) -- The World Cup begins June 11, with the first Bay Area match set for June 13. Communities across the region are planning watch parties, and many businesses are hoping the tournament brings a boost.

One of them is Batter 'N Icing, where bakers have created World Cup-themed cupcakes.

"I'm hoping you can see it but we're doing World Cup-themed cupcakes!," said owner Nisha Kanakarajan.

"Is the green frosting a fan favorite?" asked ABC 7's J.R. Stone.

"I would say our frosting in general is delicious," replied Nisha as the two began laughing.

It appears the baker was not taking sides on which flavor is the best, but says chocolate, vanilla, and red velvet are the most popular cupcakes.

The owner is rooting for Team USA, but customers can pick up a cupcake decorated for any national team.

"We have some soccer-themed cupcakes, we have the Team USA, and then something representing the Bay Area too," Kanakarajan said. "It's such a unifying game, honestly. It doesn't matter which country you're supporting."

For those interested in World Cup themed cupcakes, Kanakarajan says they do have gluten-free and vegan options at both stores. She also recommends you call in advance to book your order.

Batter 'N Icing has locations in Pleasant Hill and Danville.

MORE: World Cup 2026: Everything to know about games at Levi's Stadium, Bay Area watch parties and more

Amongst the World Cup soccer ball at San Francisco's Pier 39, word of soccer food, in addition to all the World Cup gear was eyebrow raising when we visited on Tuesday.

"She's making World Cup cupcakes. Would you eat those things?" asked Stone.

"Probably," replied 9-year-old Carter Yarbrough with a smile on his face.

"Where at? Hahaha where are those? Yeah, yeah I have to buy that!" said soccer fan Diogo Jaimes.

Those from Lids told ABC7 Eyewitness News reporter J.R Stone they've only had their World Cup gear for around a week or so, at least the new stuff, but they say it's selling pretty well, especially the small soccer balls.

What will likely be a fan favorite, Fan Bands, basically soccer bracelets with special World Cup beads, Bank of America is giving out for free in all 11 U.S. host cities on select dates.

We started giving them away early and a young England and Mexico soccer fan went to work, searching for the right beads. Let's just say our news crew and the soccer fan, dorked out.

"This one right here," he said.

"What number did you get? Five, nice that's your number?" asked Stone.

"Yeah," he replied.

Certainly, all smiles as World Cup action nears, no matter who you got.

"Messi! He's good and I feel like he's humble about his skill," said Jacob Bolhorst.

"I like Messi more, but I think it's just because he's more local in America," said Yarbrough.

"I think my team would have to be France this year. France has a team. MBappe, Olise, they got the biggest names right now," said Jaimes.

Bank of America provided the following dates and locations where fans can pick up free Fan Bands:

• San Jose Earthquakes Soccer Celebration at San Pedro Square -- June 11-12
• SF Giants Soccer Jersey Night at Oracle Park -- June 13
• San Francisco Fan Zone at Pier 39 -- June 19
• San Francisco Fan Zone at Mission Rock (China Basin Park) -- June 22, 24
• Redwood City Fan Zone at Courthouse Square -- June 23, 28-29
• Fan Zone at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk -- June 25