Atlanta United fans, youth soccer parents, and local sports lovers — get ready. The Atlanta World Cup 2026 buzz just jumped to a whole new level. The Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) announced today that Solomon Group and WINK have been chosen as Executive Producer for the FIFA Fan Festival™ Atlanta, transforming Centennial Olympic Park into the beating heart of the World Cup this June and July.
This isn’t just a party. It’s a full-throttle global gathering — live match broadcasts, thrilling concerts, food, sponsor activations, and cultural programming — all right in downtown Atlanta. Nearly 30 years after hosting the world during the 1996 Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park will once again be a place where the world comes together to celebrate soccer, unity, and community.
A Stage Built for World Soccer in the Heart of Atlanta
Solomon Group and WINK beat out more than 60 agencies to earn the spot, thanks to their experience producing massive global events. The GWCCA called their selection “an exceptional blend of creativity, technical precision, and large-scale event expertise.” With these partners at the helm, the Fan Festival will offer everything — from fan zones and live match replays to interactive sponsor areas, global food, and unforgettable entertainment.
“We’re honored to bring unprecedented scale and innovation to Centennial Olympic Park … to deliver the world-class experience Atlanta deserves,” said Steve Fink, co-founder of Solomon Group.
WINK’s Chief Creative Officer, David de Bruijn, described Atlanta’s energy perfectly: “A big city with a small-town soul. This city deserves a fan fest that matches that energy.” And with Atlanta’s deeply rooted soccer culture, that soul is ready to shine.
Fan Festival Experience: What to Expect for Atlanta United Fans and Youth Soccer Families
Here’s a glance at what’s coming to the Fan Festival in Centennial Olympic Park:
- Live Match Broadcasts: Watch key World Cup matches on big screens while surrounded by the roar of fellow fans.
- Cultural Performances: International music, dance, and art will showcase global soccer culture — with local flavor woven in.
- Interactive Zones: Sponsors and partners will activate fan areas with games, photo ops, and immersive experiences for both adults and kids.
- Food and Drink: Taste the world through food stalls celebrating cuisines from FIFA nations and favorite Atlanta food trucks.
For youth soccer parents and aspiring 17s, this Fan Festival isn’t just a spectator event — it’s a masterclass in global soccer culture, fan engagement, and how local passion connects to worldwide celebration.
Why This Matters for Atlanta United and Local Soccer
1. Showcases Atlanta’s Soccer Identity
Hosting a FIFA Fan Festival cements Atlanta’s place on the global soccer map. Atlanta United has already helped build a passionate local soccer culture, with Academy players, high school teams, and metro clubs all contributing to the city’s soccer ecosystem. This festival brings that pride to the world stage.
2. Inspires Next-Generation Players
Imagine young Atlanta United Academy players walking through those Fan Festival gates, watching international stars, and feeling the roar of a global audience. It’s moments like this that fuel dreams and build confidence in the next generation.
3. Economic and Community Impact
A month-long event like this will drive tourism, support local jobs, and highlight Atlanta’s venues and creative agencies. It’s not just about soccer — it’s about business, community, and Atlanta’s role in global sport.
Next Steps: What to Watch for Before June 2026
- Lineup Announcement: GWCCA and Solomon/WINK will soon reveal the music, entertainment, and cultural acts scheduled for the Fan Festival.
- Fan Zones & Tickets: Details coming on festival passes, seating areas, and how to get access to sponsor experiences.
- Partner Activations: Keep an eye on local clubs, brands, and community groups — how they’re shaping their presence inside the Park will matter a lot.
- Volunteer & Participation Opportunities: Youth soccer programs might have a chance to get involved with activations, youth teams, and cultural showcases.
What This Means for You, Atlanta Soccer Fans
This is more than a World Cup viewing party — this is our Cup. For Atlanta United fans, the festival is a chance to rally downtown, celebrate the sport we love, and show the world what it means to be soccer in Atlanta. For youth soccer parents, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for your kids to feel connected to global soccer culture right here at home.
If you’ve followed Atlanta United from MLS days to now — and if you believe in soccer’s power to unite — this Fan Festival will be an unforgettable experience.
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Call to Action
What part of the FIFA Fan Festival are you most excited about — live matches, concerts, or activations?
Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on social media @AtlantaSoccerNews. Let’s plan how our 17s will experience the World Cup, Atlanta style.
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.