Centennial Olympic Park

Fan Zone Information

Dates: 20+ Days (TBA)

Atlanta, Georgia, is set to be a vibrant hub for the FIFA World Cup 2026, hosting eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium between June 11 and July 19, 2026, including a thrilling semifinal clash. Beyond the stadium, Centennial Olympic Park will transform into the official FIFA Fan Festival™, offering a dynamic, multi-week celebration for soccer enthusiasts from around the globe.

Centennial Olympic Park FIFA Fan Festival™: What to Expect

The FIFA Fan Festival at Centennial Olympic Park is slated to run for 20 days, encompassing match days and the days before each match. This monumental event holds special significance as it marks 30 years since the park welcomed the world during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, reinforcing its legacy as a global gathering place.

Activities and Events: While a detailed schedule is still pending, the official FIFA Fan Festival is expected to feature:

• Live Match Broadcasts: All matches will be broadcast live on massive LED screens, creating a stadium-like atmosphere for fans without tickets.
• Concerts and Entertainment: Expect a lively program including performances by DJs, live bands, and local and international artists.
• Food and Beverages: A wide array of food vendors will offer diverse culinary experiences, including international and local flavors.
• Interactive Games and Sponsor Activations: Fans can participate in football-themed activities, interactive games, and engage with sponsor booths offering giveaways and contests, such as VR soccer games and penalty shootout stations.
• Cultural Programming: The festival will incorporate cultural programming, celebrating the diverse spirit of soccer and Atlanta's unique character.
• Family Areas and Cooling Stations: The fan zone plans to include family areas, quiet spaces, and cooling stations to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors.

Visitor Guide for Centennial Olympic Park

Location and Accessibility:

Centennial Olympic Park is centrally located in downtown Atlanta, making it easily accessible for visitors. It is less than a 10-minute walk from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, serving as a natural gathering point before and after matches.

• Public Transportation (MARTA): The most recommended way to reach the park and stadium is via MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority). The GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green/Red/Gold lines) is adjacent to the stadium and a short 5-minute walk to Centennial Olympic Park. Using the MARTA On The Go app for schedules and real-time updates is advised.
• Walking & Biking: Many downtown hotels are within a 10-20 minute walk of the park and stadium. Bike racks will be available, and services like Relay Bike Share offer bike and scooter rentals.

Admission and Hours:

Entry to the FIFA Fan Festival is typically free. However, specific admission details and operating hours for the Centennial Olympic Park fan zone are yet to be announced. Visitors should monitor official sources closer to the event for updates.

General Tips for Visitors:

• Weather: Atlanta in June and July can be hot and humid, with average highs around 87-89°F (30.6-31.7°C) and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Visitors should prepare for these conditions.
• Transportation: Favor MARTA over driving to avoid congestion and parking difficulties around the stadium and fan zone.
• Stay Updated: For the latest information on game schedules, city-wide festivities, and fan zone specifics, keep an eye on official FIFA World Cup 2026 Atlanta channels.

Beyond the Fan Zone: Exploring Atlanta

Atlanta offers a wealth of attractions and dining options for visitors during the World Cup:

• Tourist Must-Sees: Explore the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium (one of the world's largest), and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park.
• Local Favorites: Discover the BeltLine Eastside Trail for walking, biking, art, and eateries, or visit Ponce City Market for food halls, shops, and rooftop views.
• Culinary Scene: Atlanta boasts diverse dining experiences, from authentic international flavors on Buford Highway to fine dining in Buckhead and Southern cuisine in Southwest Atlanta.
• Other Fan Zones: In addition to Centennial Olympic Park, other areas like Decatur are planning their own World Cup celebrations, such as Decatur WatchFest '26, which will run for the entire length of the tournament.

Atlanta is preparing to welcome the world with its renowned Southern hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere, promising an unforgettable FIFA World Cup 2026 experience.