After four years of planning, hype, and seismic expectations, it’s here.
With 2026 FIFA World Cup matches now underway, Atlanta’s official FIFA FAN FESTIVAL™ has kicked off at Centennial Olympic Park as the centerpiece of downtown gathering points.
Blocks away, business openings have begun in South Downtown, Centennial Yards’ “Rise ATL” pop-up has kicked off, and Underground Atlanta’s soccer-themed blowout is scheduled to launch Friday, among other happenings. CNN Center’s reincarnation as The CTR also recently opened.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium ("Atlanta Stadium" for the next month) is sporting FIFA branding. Note the massive Mercedes emblem is still visible atop the retractable roof. Urbanize Atlanta
FIFA FAN FESTIVAL™ in relation to the core of downtown (right) and Midtown in the distance. Urbanize Atlanta
Meanwhile, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Showcase Atlanta announced today that a summer of free programming is going to culminate with a live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final in Piedmont Park on July 19—alongside a free, full concert from Atlanta’s own Ludacris and other local artists, as produced by ONE Musicfest.
For now, the main thrust of city-backed World Cup action is downtown (and in Decatur). Head up to the gallery for our latest installment of Aerial Tours over Atlanta for a closer look.
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