Soccer fans from across metro Atlanta and around the world are gathering at Centennial Olympic Park today as Atlanta officially opens its FIFA Fan Festival for the 2026 World Cup.
Gates opened at noon, giving fans a chance to watch matches on large screens, participate in festival activities, and experience the atmosphere surrounding the world's largest soccer tournament.
Organizers say the festival is designed to bring the excitement of the World Cup to fans even if they don't have tickets to matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which has been temporarily renamed "Atlanta Stadium" for the tournament.
A performance by Grammy-nominated artist Summer Walker headlines opening day, along with an official ceremony featuring appearances by Governor Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
"Organizers are focusing heavily on the city's rich African, Caribbean, and Latino diaspora communities to reflect how soccer lives locally," according to event planners.
Upcoming performers at the fan festival include Killer Mike on June 21 and Davido on June 26. The festival runs through the duration of Atlanta's World Cup matches.
The first match at Atlanta Stadium is scheduled for June 16 when Germany faces Norway.