Despite initial dread and skepticism, the 2026 World Cup has captivated residents and visitors in host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with joyful celebrations, multicultural camaraderie, and a carnival-like atmosphere that has won over even the most reluctant locals.
Kansas City: Small City, Big Heart
Eric Wahl of Kansas City noted that while the city is the smallest of the 16 host cities, it has a history of punching above its weight. Organizers worked hard to wow visitors, quickly addressing shuttle bus and traffic hiccups after the first home match. Watch parties are well-attended, and the official fan fest teems with global visitors. "From Algeria getting adopted by the people of Lawrence, to Netherlands fans taking over a bar in Parkville, and the England and Argentinian teams embracing Kansas City barbecue, we made new friends around the globe thanks to this World Cup," Wahl said.
Monterrey and Mexico City: Unforgettable Celebrations
José Galindo from Monterrey and Mexico City observed that despite incomplete metro construction projects, residents have fully embraced the World Cup atmosphere. He saw Japanese fans celebrating in harmony with locals in Monterrey's old quarter, and in Mexico City, thousands of Colombian fans took over the Angel of Independence monument, making it their own. "Mexico has won the hearts of people from all over the world, and among the three host countries, it has been the place where the tournament has been experienced and celebrated in the best way," Galindo said.
Dallas: Carnival Atmosphere and Multicultural Parade
Gustavo Alvarez attended the Netherlands vs. Japan game in Dallas and described the Orange bus parade as a unique, carnival-like experience with fans from many countries. The stadium atmosphere was electric, especially in the second half, with Japanese excitement and Dutch despair when the game was leveled. "The Dutch and Japanese definitely know how to party hard and I love it," Alvarez said.
New York City: Too Big to Be Affected
John Welch of New York City noted that the World Cup hasn't affected the city much, as locals focus on the Yankees and Mets. "If you know where to look, you can find World Cup tourists. Otherwise, the city is too big and too active for World Cup goers to make much difference," Welch said.
Philadelphia: Special Excitement in the Air
Paul B Krause, living three blocks from the fan zone in Philadelphia, said the neighborhood was awash with Ecuador jerseys when they played Côte d'Ivoire. He visited the fan zone three times and found everyone having a great time. "The experience of seeing everyone from all over the world enjoying the matches has felt like an antidote to much of what’s going on in the country right now," Krause said. He hopes visitors enjoy the city, which often gets overlooked between New York and Washington DC.
Toronto: Immaculate Vibes and Giant Parties
Graham Withers described the atmosphere at the Canada vs. Bosnia game in Toronto as "immaculate," with red, blue, and yellow jerseys parading through the streets. Sankofa Square hosted a giant Ghanaian party, and Bosnian fans held a huge parade. "We have tickets for a game and can’t wait to party it up with everyone," Withers said. Toby Lennox attended the Ghana vs. Panama match with his daughter, noting the terrific vibe despite rain and cold. "The place went berserk when Ghana scored in extra time, unleashing a torrent of hi-fives, hugs, screaming and other delightful nonsense. Too much fun," Lennox said.
Vancouver: Embracing the Joy
Kate from Vancouver admitted she initially dreaded the World Cup but now embraces it after seeing joyous festivities. Despite street closures and driving difficulties, bars are having record sales, with one almost running out of beer. "Those Aussies really know how to make endless barrels of beer disappear like nobody imagined," Kate said. She noted very few incidents requiring police attention and praised the sunny weather. "I am glad that people from all over the world can come here, let loose and have the time of their lives," she added.
Miami: Growing Support for US
Geoff Willerton from Miami was shocked by the massive turnout and awesome atmosphere at a local bar for US games. "Beer was flowing, people were singing. A DJ was playing booming classics. As the tournament progresses this will get crazier by the game. People think this game is not big in the US. Think again," Willerton said.
Mexico City: Great Hosts Despite High Prices
Francisco Fontano Patán from Mexico City noted that FIFA made ticket prices out of reach for 90% of Mexicans, but the atmosphere at fan fests is great. "Once again Mexicans are showing we are great hosts and that we receive everyone with open arms," Fontano Patán said. He highlighted that fans from countries like Korea, Tunisia, and Sweden are having a great time, and Mexico made Iran feel welcome despite Trump administration policies. "This atmosphere is especially important in a tournament marred by the Trump administration and the discrimination against certain countries," he added.
