The FIFA World Cup 2026 is right around the corner. Here’s a breakdown of the Fan Festival in Houston.
HOUSTON — The FIFA World Cup 2026 is right around the corner, and Houston is ready to celebrate with 34 days of Fan Festival kicking off on June 11.
Editor’s note: The above video is from KHOU 11’s coverage looking ahead to the World Cup on May 20.
What is the FIFA Fan Festival?
FIFA describes the Fan Festival as “Houston’s destination for live match viewing parties and global celebrations throughout the world’s largest sporting event.”
The event is free to the public.
When and where is the FIFA Fan Festival
The Fan Festival is taking place in Houston’s East Downtown, next to Shell Energy Stadium, between Emancipation and Hutchins, from Polk to Walker. It’s open daily from June 11 through July 19.
Gates to the festival are set to open 90 minutes before the first game’s kickoff each day. Hours of operation are expected to be updated online daily.
Entrances to the festival are located along Polk and Walker.
As for how to get to the festival, FIFA says there are various parking options, including the Avenida North Garage and lots B and C when the Astros aren’t playing at home. Organizers said there are more than 90,000 parking spots within three miles of the festival site.
Organizers also recommend fans take advantage of Houston METRO’s METRORail or rideshare services.
What is there to do at FIFA Fan Festival
In addition to watching the games, organizers highlighted several attractions at the Houston Fan Festival, including a 7v7 synthetic turf field at Aramco Arena, Esphera — described as a 360-degree immersive experience inspired by the FIFA World Cup 2026 match ball — interactive exhibits from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and Space Center Houston, and more.
Premium hospitality options will also be available.
FIFA Fan Festival bag, security policies
Guests are allowed to bring in bags, so long as they are within the size requirements of 12″x12″x6″.
FIFA says all bags are subject to security screening, and security personnel can prohibit any item they deem unsafe.
“Guests are encouraged to travel light and arrive early to allow additional time for security screenings and entry procedures,” organizers said on Fan Festival’s website.
Read more about the event on Fan Festival’s website.
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