Kansas City Prepares to Shine: World Cup Fan Festival to Showcase City’s Culture

KANSAS CITY, MO – October 28, 2025 – Kansas City is rapidly solidifying its position as a premier host city for the FIFA World Cup 26™, unveiling ambitious plans for the FIFA Fan Festival™ and expanding its network of Official Host City Supporters. The announcement signals a significant step forward in the city’s preparations, promising an engaging experience for soccer enthusiasts and a boost to the local economy.

A Festival Rooted in History and Culture

The heart of the fan experience will be the FIFA Fan Festival™, strategically located at the iconic National WWI Museum and Memorial. This selection isn’t simply about logistical convenience; it’s a deliberate move to weave the event into the fabric of Kansas City’s identity. The festival grounds will be marked by a striking 65-foot heart-shaped entrance, designed to be an instantly recognizable symbol of the city’s welcoming spirit.

“The choice of the National WWI Museum and Memorial is very intentional,” explained one source close to the KC2026 organization. “We wanted a location that tells a story, that reflects Kansas City’s history and character. The heart-shaped entrance is about embracing the energy and passion of the World Cup while also showcasing our city’s warmth.”

With a capacity of 25,000 attendees, the festival will be a hub of activity on match days and during games featuring Team USA. Organizers are prioritizing a blend of live entertainment, local cuisine, interactive exhibits, and, of course, extensive viewing areas for the matches. A clear bag policy and stringent security screenings will be implemented to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all attendees.

Local Support Fuels World Cup Ambitions

The commitment to hosting the FIFA World Cup 26™ is not solely driven by KC2026, a non-profit organization spearheading the city’s efforts. It’s a collaborative effort bolstered by key local businesses. Black & Veatch, a global engineering, construction, and consulting firm headquartered in Kansas City, joins Populous and Nestlé Purina PetCare as an Official Host City Supporter.

This partnership highlights the strong local investment in the event. “Black & Veatch has deep roots in Kansas City, and they’re committed to giving back to the community,” stated a source familiar with the sponsorship agreement. “Their expertise in infrastructure and their commitment to sustainability will be invaluable as we prepare to host the World Cup.”

Karen Daniel, retired CFO of Black & Veatch, previously served as the Board President for KC2026, demonstrating a sustained commitment to the event from the company’s leadership. While direct sponsorship of large sporting events isn’t central to their business model, Black & Veatch’s role is crucial, leveraging its local presence and dedication to Kansas City.

Beyond the Game: Economic Impact and Community Considerations

The FIFA World Cup 26™ is projected to bring significant economic benefits to Kansas City, with estimates pointing to “hundreds of millions of dollars” in revenue. The influx of tourists, the demand for hotel rooms, and the increase in spending at local businesses are all expected to contribute to the city’s economic growth. Both Missouri and Kansas have pledged substantial financial support, allocating nearly $60 million combined to support the event and necessary infrastructure improvements.

However, the event is not without potential challenges. Concerns have been raised about the use of public funds and the long-term impact on the community. Critics question whether the economic benefits will outweigh the costs and whether the event will exacerbate existing inequalities.

“There’s a legitimate debate about the best use of public resources,” said one community activist. “We need to ensure that the benefits of the World Cup are shared by all Kansas City residents, not just a select few.”

Organizers acknowledge these concerns and are committed to working with community stakeholders to address them. Efforts are underway to prioritize local hiring, provide affordable housing options, and mitigate any potential displacement of residents. The goal is to create a World Cup experience that is both memorable and inclusive, leaving a positive legacy for the city and its people.

“We want to create a festival that showcases Kansas City’s culture and hospitality,” said a KC2026 representative. “But we also want to ensure that the event benefits all members of our community.”

With a focus on cultural immersion, local support, and community engagement, Kansas City is positioning itself as a standout host city for the FIFA World Cup 26™. The FIFA Fan Festival™ promises to be a vibrant and memorable experience, showcasing the city’s unique character to the world.