Over the course of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, countless fans have come together to support their favorite teams in the energetic matchups.
Those who weren’t fortunate enough to nab tickets to one of the stadiums across Canada, the US, and Mexico watched from their homes, bars, or even sidewalks.
FIFA also launched 13 Fan Festivals across North America for fans to get involved, with attendance quickly climbing to over 2 million within the first week. At these festivals, fans had the opportunity to soak up the World Cup energy with music, concerts, activations, and matches streamed on jumbo screens.
Business Insider reporters went to two of the most popular FIFA Fan Festivals in the US, Atlanta and Philadelphia. Here’s how the events compared.
Atlanta location: Centennial Olympic Park
Atlanta hosted its recently ended FIFA Fan Festival at Centennial Olympic Park, around a mile from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where eight World Cup matches were played.
Philadelphia location: Lemon Hill
At Lemon Hill in Philadelphia, the park where the festival is hosted, attendees spread out on blankets and fanned their faces with Michelob Ultra-branded hand fans while watching the big screen.
Atlanta crowds exceeded 500,000
According to organizers, the Atlanta FIFA Fan Festival drew more than 500,000 visitors, averaging more than 27,000 guests per day.
Philadelphia crowds exceeded 425,000
As of Wednesday, July 8, more than 425,000 fans had attended the event in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia festival will end after the final World Cup match between Argentina and Spain on Sunday, July 19.
Atlanta activations
Bank of America’s coveted charm bracelets were a draw. Other activations included games, photo opportunities, and fun activities presented by Coca-Cola, Home Depot, Michelob Ultra, and more.
Philadelphia activations
Fans traveled from near and far to enjoy the experience, with many returning more than once to relive it.
The festival included many of the same activations as Atlanta’s, like Bank of America’s charm bracelets and Coca-Cola selfie stations. There were also foosball tables and a mini-pitch for children to play pickup soccer.
Atlanta volunteers
Volunteers spread across the park to help direct foot traffic, take pictures for fans, and answer questions.
Philadelphia volunteers
Nearly 3,000 volunteers kept the Philadelphia FanFest and its nearby attractions safe, fun, and friendly.
Atlanta jumbo screens and stages
A 47-foot jumbo screen was the focal point of the festival, with World Cup matches streaming daily. Smaller screens were placed throughout the park.
Philadelphia’s viewing areas
On the grassy tree-covered streets of Lemon Hill, soccer fans gathered around a main projector screen for “soccer Coachella.” Other smaller screens were stationed throughout the festival.
Atlanta security
Security was present at the MARTA train stations and throughout the areas surrounding both the FIFA Fan Festival and stadium.
Philadelphia security
The event was well secured by law enforcement throughout the park and at Philadelphia Stadium.
Atlanta takeaway
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a press release from the Atlanta FIFA Fan Festival, “This is the Group Project in action — showcasing Atlanta to the world, providing our renowned hospitality and delivering unforgettable experiences not only for visitors from around the globe, but for Atlanta and Georgia residents who became tourists in their own city.”
Philadelphia takeaway
Chloe Martins, a soccer fan supporting Portugal, told Business Insider the Fan Fest crowds were anything but a nuisance.
“Even though we’re not at the actual game, I love seeing everyone in our neighborhood walking around to different bars and restaurants, people coming from the Fan Fest, and representing their countries,” Martins said. “It’s such a good vibe.”
Read the full article here
