October 30 – Kansas City and Arrowhead Stadium will host World Cup matches next year, but a few miles away on the lawn of the National World War I Museum and Memorial, KC2026 plans to build the ultimate FIFA Fan Festival.
Renderings show two stages, 4,500 square feet of screens, and space for 25,000 fans. “It’s the largest activation we have control over,” said KC2026 CEO Pam Kramer. “FIFA controls the stadium, but this is ours.”
Populous, a Kansas City-based global architecture firm, have designed some of the greatest venues on the planet, and now they’re focusing on their hometown.
The entrance will sit under a 65-foot heart-shaped arch, a nod to the city’s famous symbol. “It just makes sense to Kansas City,” said Populous senior principal Kelly Holton. “It represents our charm, hospitality, and that Midwestern warmth we’re known for.”
Fan fests have become the de facto soul of the modern World Cup as ticketless fans share beers, chants, and heartbreak together.
For 18 days, every U.S. match and every game hosted in the city will be shown live. When it’s closed, fans will be encouraged to attend festivals at Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, Lenexa, and beyond.
Dr. Matt Naylor, President of the museum, sees it as a gift. “About 80% of our visitors come from outside the region,” he said. “This will bring even more people to learn, remember, and celebrate.”
Free to enter, full of local flavour, including the legendary Kansas City BBQ, the Fan Fest is designed for everyone.