Excitement was initially muted, but the joy, noise, and colour from visiting fans have captivated people in host cities across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Residents share their stories of transformation from dread to delight.
Kansas City: Small City, Big Heart
While Kansas City is the smallest of the 16 host cities, it has a history of punching above its weight. Armed with a compelling soccer history, organisers and the community worked hard to wow visitors. Hiccups with shuttle buses and traffic at the first home match were quickly addressed. Watch parties are heartily attended, and the official fan fest teems with people from all over the world.
“The people in the city wearing soccer jerseys from every country you can imagine have added to a singularly colourful environment that will mark our memories for a very long time,” said Eric Wahl, a Kansas City resident. “From Algeria getting adopted by the people of Lawrence, to Netherlands fans taking over a bar in Parkville, and the England and Argentinian teams embracing Kansas City barbecue, we made new friends around the globe thanks to this World Cup.”
Monterrey and Mexico City: Celebrations at Every Corner
In Monterrey, metro construction projects were not completed before the tournament began, but people have largely forgotten about that and fully embraced the World Cup atmosphere. “Mexican people have always been very welcoming, but this has taken things to a whole new level,” said José Galindo, a resident of both Monterrey and Mexico City. “I saw Japanese fans in the city’s old quarter celebrating in complete harmony with the locals. The atmosphere was full of colour, dancing and celebration.”
In Mexico City, Galindo witnessed incredible celebrations by Colombian fans at the Angel of Independence monument. “Thousands of Colombians had taken over one of the country’s most iconic public monuments and made it their own. It was an incredible sight and it genuinely made me happy. Colombians truly felt at home.”
Dallas: A Carnival of Cultures
Gustavo Alvarez attended the Netherlands vs Japan game in Dallas and experienced the Orange bus parade. “It was a carnival-like atmosphere, with fans dressed up in all kinds of costumes. It was a multicultural parade that included typical Dutch songs but also American pop music and even Bad Bunny songs.”
Alvarez noted the respectful and enthusiastic crowds. “The Dutch and Japanese have been great visitors. They are a very happy, respectful and enthusiastic crowd. There was a Japanese festival the night before the game – with food, music, fans and history.”
New York City: Too Big to Be Affected
Not all cities felt a major impact. John Welch from New York City said, “The World Cup hasn’t affected the city much. New Yorkers went crazy when the Knicks won the NBA Championship. It has been silly-making hot recently, so I have not gone down to midtown. If you know where to look, you can find World Cup tourists. Otherwise, the city is too big and too active for World Cup goers to make much difference.”
Philadelphia: An Antidote to Division
Paul B Krause lives three blocks from the fan zone in Philadelphia. “The neighbourhood was awash with Ecuador jerseys when they played Côte d’Ivoire, which was fun. The experience of seeing everyone from all over the world enjoying the matches has felt like an antidote to much of what’s going on in the country right now.”
He added, “We are used to tourists, but there’s a special excitement in the air. The city is getting very good at hosting large events.”
Toronto: Immaculate Vibes and Global Parties
Graham Withers dropped his son off at the Canada vs Bosnia game in Toronto. “The vibes were immaculate. There were so many red jerseys on the train, and so many blue and yellow jerseys parading through the streets. Sankofa Square was a giant Ghanaian party the other night. Bosnian fans had a huge parade last week.”
Toby Lennox attended the Ghana vs Panama match with his daughter. “The general consensus is: love the World Cup, hate Fifa. The match was held on a damp, cold evening. We were surrounded by Ghana fans, including mums with babies. The place went berserk when Ghana scored in extra time. Too much fun.”
Vancouver: From Dread to Delight
Kate from Vancouver initially dreaded the World Cup but now embraces it. “I see how joyous the festivities are. Bars are having the best sales of their lives, with one or two almost running out of beer despite bringing in massive quantities. Apparently those Aussies really know how to make endless barrels of beer disappear.”
She added, “Everyone is in a good mood and having fun. I am glad that people from all over the world can come here, let loose and have the time of their lives.”
Miami: Big Support for US
Geoff Willerton from Miami was shocked at the support for the US at a local bar. “A massive turnout, with an awesome atmosphere. Beer was flowing, people were singing. As the tournament progresses this will get crazier by the game. People think this game is not big in the US. Think again.”
Mexico City: Great Hosts Despite High Prices
Francisco Fontano Patán from Mexico City noted that Fifa made prices out of reach for 90% of Mexicans, so he didn't try for tickets. However, the atmosphere at fan fests is great. “Once again Mexicans are showing we are great hosts and that we receive everyone with open arms. This atmosphere is especially important in a tournament marred by the Trump administration and the discrimination against certain countries. At least here in Mexico we made Iran feel welcome.”
