The FIFA World Cup is almost here, and Atlanta United is making sure the city feels every bit of it.
With Atlanta preparing to welcome the world this summer, Atlanta United announced a massive Soccer Celebration initiative designed to bring the game beyond Mercedes-Benz Stadium and into neighborhoods, museums, airports, watch parties, and gathering spaces across the metro area before, during, and after FIFA World Cup 2026.
And honestly, it feels like the perfect match for a city that has fully embraced soccer culture over the last decade.
From live match watch parties and interactive fan experiences to art exhibits and airport activations, Atlanta United is leaning all the way into the moment as global attention turns toward Atlanta between June 15 and July 15.
“Soccer Celebration is about elevating the energy of the global game in our city and making sure every fan, family and visitor feels connected to it,” said Mike Ridley, Vice President of Marketing at Atlanta United. “From the airport to neighborhoods across Atlanta, we’re excited to be part of experiences that reflect who we are as a club in our community by bringing people together to share in the magic of the beautiful game.”
The club’s footprint this summer is going to be hard to miss.
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, travelers arriving from around the world will immediately step into Atlanta United-themed experiences spread throughout both international and domestic terminals. The activation includes a mini replica of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a kit history gallery, digital displays, interactive team photo opportunities, and even an Atlanta United Bar and Grill in partnership with Michelob ULTRA.
Club photographer Matthew Dingle’s work will also be showcased throughout the airport beginning June 2.
Outside the airport, Atlanta United plans to spread the Soccer Celebration across the city through watch parties and fan activations at pub partner locations throughout The Battery, Buckhead, Little Five Points, Midtown, South Downtown, West End, and more.
The club will also have a major presence at Decatur WatchFest ‘26, occupying a premium spot in Decatur Square during the 34-day celebration. Fans can expect lounge areas, kid-friendly activities, and an atmosphere built around bringing people together through soccer and music.
But the celebration won’t stop with matchdays.
Atlanta United is also stepping into the city’s art and cultural spaces during the tournament.
The club is partnering with The National Center for Civil and Human Rights for The People’s Game: Soccer and Human Rights, an exhibit opening this June and running through June 2027. Atlanta United will also be featured prominently in Footwork, an exhibition at Emory University’s Robert W. Woodruff Library exploring soccer’s impact on Atlanta culture through fashion, sneakers, and sport.
Meanwhile, younger fans will get their own interactive experience at the Atlanta History Center through Atlanta Sports, where children can dress up as Atlanta United players and participate in soccer-themed challenges.
And perhaps the biggest sign of how important Atlanta has become on the global soccer map? The club’s own facilities are now part of the World Cup infrastructure itself.
Atlanta United’s training ground will serve as the official base camp for the Uzbekistan National Team throughout the tournament, while Mercedes-Benz Stadium prepares to host eight World Cup matches, including a semifinal.
It’s another reminder that Atlanta isn’t just hosting games this summer — it’s becoming one of the centerpieces of the entire tournament experience.
Atlanta United will also continue its “First Match On Us” initiative with Papa Johns and Ticketmaster following the World Cup break, giving new fans an opportunity to experience an MLS match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for free as the club returns to league play.
Following the tournament pause, Atlanta United resumes MLS action on Friday, July 17, when the club travels to face Nashville SC.
