Kansas City unveiled renderings and details for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Fest at the National World War I Museum and Memorial on Tuesday. The free event will feature a 65-foot heart-shaped entrance, large screens, and live entertainment for up to 25,000 fans. It will operate for at least 18 days, aligning with the city's hosted matches and U.S. national team games.
During a press conference on October 28, 2025, KC2026 organizers shared the first look at the Fan Fest, designed by Kansas City-based firm Populous to create a 'distinctly Kansas City experience.' The setup on the south lawn includes a main stage for live entertainment and matches, a secondary stage on the east side for additional programming, and nearly 4,500 square feet of video boards, including a primary 45-by-25-foot screen. The Liberty Memorial will provide a historic backdrop, with features like shade, misting fans, a misting tunnel, and tailgating areas emphasizing local cuisine, culture, and hospitality.
KC2026 CEO Pam Kramer highlighted the event's role: 'It's the largest activation that we have control over. FIFA will really manage everything at the stadium. This is our activation.' The festival will serve as the region's official watch party for Kansas City's six matches at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium—group-stage games on June 16, 19, 24, and 27, a Round of 32 match on July 3, and a quarterfinal on July 11—plus at least three U.S. national team matches. Organizers predict the July 11 game will be the biggest sporting event in city history.
Security will mirror stadium standards, with magnetometers and a clear bag policy, drawing lessons from recent Chappell Roan concerts on the same lawn. Capacity is set at 25,000, and the site will act as a transit hub, with full transportation plans announced by year's end. The event is free but requires advance registration, available in early December via KC2026's website, with premium tickets for exclusive access. To spread economic impact, it won't operate daily, encouraging visits to areas like Lee's Summit and Overland Park.
Dr. Matt Naylor, president and CEO of the museum, noted it will remain open throughout, attracting 80% out-of-region visitors. Local vendors and restaurants will participate, with details in 2026. Raul Villegas, a local soccer coach who attended a past Fan Fest, said, 'You feel part of the game without being at the stadium.' Black & Veatch joined as a new supporter.
