Thousands of soccer fans who couldn’t get stadium tickets still found a World Cup experience in Kansas City, gathering at FIFA Fan Fest on the grounds of the National WWI Museum and Memorial to watch matches on giant screens and celebrate with supporters from around the world.
On Saturday, cheers reflected regional pride, including fans backing Ecuador, alongside other South American supporters. Local soccer fan Jennifer Lightsey, who lives in the Kansas City area, said the tournament has made the city feel “alive,” and she described her support for Curaçao, including the connection she feels to the island and her reason for cheering when fans arrived in Kansas City.
Beyond soccer, the festival featured cultural performances throughout the day, with groups showcasing music, dance, and traditions from different countries. An Ecuadorian dance group performed in traditional dress, including colorful masks meant to symbolize ancestry, heritage, and celebration, as performers emphasized the welcoming atmosphere they felt in Kansas City.
As the World Cup continues, organizers hope FIFA Fan Fest will remain a place where supporters can celebrate both the matches and the cultures that shape the tournament.