If those expensive tickets to World Cup matches are out of reach, there are still options to commune with fellow fans while watching the games.From a floating pitch to Motley Crue, the World Cup fan festivals have something for everyone in addition to the soccer. As is the custom for the World Cup, the 16 cities across Canada, Mexico and the United States that are hosting games will all have fanfests, or fan zones. The Associated Press counted some 78 fan fests sanctioned by the FIFA host city organizing committees. But there are many more. Some 20 Major League Soccer teams are hosting events tied to the World Cup, with other teams partnering with the host city fan fests.These are designated areas, often in parks and public squares, where fans can watch the games, enjoy food and beverages, take in some entertainment and buy official merch. It’s also a chance for cities to showcase local culture.
But this World Cup is unlike any of the previous versions. There are 48 teams, which means there are more games spread out over a longer timeline. Cities are already stretched thin by economic stressors like inflation and gas prices. While cities got some federal dollars for the World Cup, those funds have not covered all the costs. As a result, some of the festivals are cutting back days of operation, and other are charging for tickets, guaranteed admission, seats or elevated experiences — like cabanas in the Houston heat.
