Throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, supporters gathered in large numbers to cheer on their teams during exciting contests. Fans unable to secure stadium tickets across Canada, the US, and Mexico viewed the action from residences, pubs, or even outdoor spaces.

FIFA organized 13 Fan Festivals throughout North America, where attendance surpassed 2 million in the opening week alone. Participants enjoyed World Cup atmosphere through live music, performances, interactive exhibits, and matches broadcast on large displays.

Business Insider journalists visited two leading US FIFA Fan Festivals in Atlanta and Philadelphia to examine how the events stacked up against each other.

Atlanta Location: Centennial Olympic Park

Atlanta held its recently concluded FIFA Fan Festival at Centennial Olympic Park, situated roughly one mile from Mercedes-Benz Stadium that hosted eight World Cup games.

Philadelphia Location: Lemon Hill

At Lemon Hill in Philadelphia, the site hosting the festival, visitors relaxed on blankets and cooled themselves with Michelob Ultra-branded fans while viewing the large display.

Atlanta Crowds Exceeded 500,000

Organizers reported that the Atlanta FIFA Fan Festival attracted over 500,000 attendees, averaging more than 27,000 guests daily.

Philadelphia Crowds Exceeded 425,000

By Wednesday, July 8, attendance in Philadelphia surpassed 425,000 fans. The Philadelphia event concludes following the championship match between Argentina and Spain on Sunday, July 19.

Atlanta Activations

Bank of America's popular charm bracelets proved popular. Additional features featured games, photo spots, and engaging experiences from Coca-Cola, Home Depot, Michelob Ultra, and other partners.

Philadelphia Activations

Supporters journeyed from various distances to take part, with many returning multiple times. The festival offered similar features to Atlanta's, including Bank of America charm bracelets and Coca-Cola selfie areas, plus foosball tables and a small field for kids to play soccer.

Atlanta Volunteers

Volunteers positioned throughout the park assisted with crowd flow, captured photos for attendees, and provided information.

Philadelphia Volunteers

Nearly 3,000 volunteers ensured the Philadelphia FanFest and surrounding areas remained secure, enjoyable, and welcoming.

Atlanta Jumbo Screens and Stages

A 47-foot large screen served as the centerpiece, streaming World Cup matches each day, with additional smaller screens placed around the park.

Philadelphia Viewing Areas

On the grassy, tree-lined paths of Lemon Hill, soccer enthusiasts assembled around a primary projection screen for what felt like soccer Coachella, while other smaller screens dotted the festival grounds.

Atlanta Security

Security personnel monitored MARTA train stations and zones around both the FIFA Fan Festival and the stadium.

Philadelphia Security

The occasion featured strong law enforcement presence throughout the park and near Philadelphia Stadium.

Atlanta Takeaway

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens noted in a press release, '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 Portugal supporter, shared with Business Insider that the Fan Fest crowds enhanced rather than disrupted the scene. 'Even though we are 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 is such a good vibe.'