‘So vibrant and full of life’

This summer proved lively and energetic. I had reservations, yet as the World Cup neared and Boston prepared for its opening match, anticipation built in the streets. Much of that stemmed from the large groups of Scottish supporters who arrived for their clash with Haiti. Their playful antics, including placing cones around town, strolling in kilts and playing bagpipes alongside street musicians, created a lively scene. Their energy proved infectious. Crowds from numerous nations in their team shirts suggested something special was underway. Even non-fans among friends and coworkers shared the buzz. I went to three matches and my sole gripe remains the steep ticket costs. Visiting supporters praised American kindness, though all noted the poor political climate. It was uplifting to see guests distinguish between leaders and residents. Moon, Boston

‘We sent out a message’

The mood felt subdued ahead of the event, as shopkeepers voiced frustration over Fifa restrictions and fans lamented high prices. Once underway, the contrast did not deter crowds from watch parties filled with cheer. Priced out of stadiums, the celebrations continued away from Fifa. Despite the organization’s actions, the message came through that supporters, not bodies, control the sport. Standout moments included the long celebrations after Colombia defeated DR Congo, stretching blocks into the night. The city had rarely felt so Colombian. And Merlin the duck. Eme Guitron, Guadalajara

‘We saw the best of Canada’

The opening week set the pace: Vancouver’s changeable weather held steady, Granville Street’s pedestrian zone thrived and locals embraced the occasion. I watched Egypt face New Zealand, a true bucket-list event. Everything ran smoothly from transport to fan zones and the stadium, with a strong game to boot. I even won a score prediction bet. Locals welcomed visitors warmly. The saying that Canadians arrive from everywhere rang true as diasporas added color to big-screen viewings. The tournament highlighted Canada’s finest traits: beauty and openness. I have long promoted Vancouver, and now others may visit too. I will always recall my son opening his first Panini sticker pack before the first match. Ben Lane, Vancouver

‘The host cities were way too spread out’

I experienced South Africa’s 2010 World Cup, where fans stayed in Johannesburg or Cape Town and the event dominated daily life for weeks. This time the venues felt too dispersed. I visited DC, New York, Chicago and Atlanta, mixing host and non-host spots. Without seeking out football hubs, the days felt ordinary. Kyle, New York

‘I am glad it’s all over’

Many seemed to enjoy themselves. Traffic and transit faced disruptions, and early-morning bar lines were unusual, with beer running low at times. Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics previously and the atmosphere matched that. Personally, I am relieved it has ended. I want my quiet city restored. Eleanor, Vancouver

‘The Mexican fans were wonderful’

I attended several 1986 World Cup matches but prices ruled that out this year. The city mood stayed upbeat, with fans gathering in eateries, bars, plazas, fan zones and grounds. Mexican supporters made a strong impression. My English partner and our football-loving sons enjoyed the Mexico versus England game together in Mexico City. Oliver Regueiro, Mexico City

‘A surprising success’

We visited a Philadelphia fan zone but skipped matches due to cost. Even my brother, who attended events in South Korea and China, refused the inflated prices. Despite Fifa and Donald Trump issues, the World Cup proved a pleasant surprise. We enjoyed international visitors and locals cheering ancestral teams. People still view our leader negatively, yet they saw the country as welcoming. The spirit from fans, especially Norway, Scotland and Japan, highlighted humanity’s best side. W Pfeister, Louisiana

‘I had talked about boycotting’

Pre-tournament talk mixed doubt over prices, Fifa’s fan treatment and Gianni Infantino’s ties to the Trump team. Co-hosting left us uneasy. Yet once play began, skepticism gave way to excitement for the matches and stories. I had planned a boycott but family convinced me to attend two games with a fine atmosphere. Vancouver’s energy stood out, with smooth organization and strong crowds. Hosts and fans excelled. Credit is due. Allan Castle, Vancouver

‘A success and an embarrassment’

The World Cup succeeded in spotlighting the sport nationally, much like the Olympics. It also exposed US government flaws, from visa denials to training shifts into Mexico and political clashes. Future joint hosting should avoid such displays. Wayne H Donner, New York

‘The city came alive’

The atmosphere felt energetic. Toronto has not seen such life in years. Though it hosted fewer matches, its diversity made every game feel local. Most embraced the event, and preparations improved transit and roads. Hosting more often could help. Fan marches, especially for Portugal versus Croatia, impressed. Canada is more than a hockey nation, and this event proved it. I look forward to future growth. Prem, Toronto

‘I cannot get enough of those bagpipes’

Guests received warm praise and seemed to enjoy themselves. They partied politely yet enthusiastically. A friend called an Atlanta match the highlight of her life. Even non-sports fans followed closely. The event may leave cities better prepared for large gatherings. Hopefully the world sees the US positively. Highlights included visitors enjoying local food and scenes, plus Scottish marches in Boston. The bagpipes proved captivating. Anne Landrum, Atlanta

‘It was purely a party’

I attended five games and the fan energy will linger. Watching Canada play and win at home felt unreal. I hope visitors left with good impressions of Vancouver. The execution should help. Canada welcomes all, and our immigrant strength shows. Amid rising division elsewhere, the shared joy proved moving. No hate appeared, only celebration. Jayden, Vancouver

‘We have been one again’

It was excellent. Political divides had split the country, yet the past weeks united us as one nation and team. Hospitality returned despite past issues. No incidents marred the games. I will remember singing the anthem with family at the opening. Rogelio Torres, Mexico City

‘I’ve never seen anything close to it’

Interest levels surprised me. It usually rises with US runs, but this year exceeded that. I attended several matches, including US games in Santa Clara, LA and Seattle. Stadium atmospheres were intense, unmatched previously. Seattle stood out for noise and energy, with the city-center location spreading the buzz. Allan Timpe, California

‘Some cities did a better job than others’

I left Massachusetts to follow Egypt. Some venues performed better, with downtown stadiums creating stronger vibes than suburban ones. Dallas and Boston felt quiet, while Seattle, Vancouver and Atlanta buzzed. Despite pre-event criticism, results exceeded hopes. More matches in Canada and Mexico would have been ideal. Omar Aly, Boston