Your Guide to World Cup 2026 in DFW
This summer, the World Cup comes to North Texas. Nine matches. A semifinal. Somewhere around a million visitors descending on a metro area that still cannot agree on whether it is Dallas or Fort Worth. If you are reading this from anywhere in DFW — the biggest sporting event on the planet is about to happen in your backyard.
The Matches
AT&T Stadium in Arlington — temporarily renamed “Dallas Stadium” because FIFA does not do suburb branding — hosts nine World Cup matches this summer, including group stage games, knockout rounds, and a semifinal on July 14. The USA plays their Group D matches against Paraguay, Australia, and Türkiye. The retractable roof means climate-controlled soccer in July in Texas. This matters more than you think.
Fair Park Fan Festival
No tickets? FIFA’s Fan Festival at Fair Park is the gathering spot of the summer — 277 acres of watch parties, live music, and food vendors. Fair Park sits on the DART Green Line, so park somewhere civilized and ride the train in. If you have been to the State Fair, you know the layout. Now replace the fried butter with Argentine choripán and forty national anthems being sung at once.
Best Soccer Bars in DFW
The Londoner in Addison is the default soccer bar — arrive early or do not arrive. Peticolas Brewing in the Design District draws a solid crowd with house-brewed beer. Eastbound & Down in Deep Ellum has screens and tacos. The Crafty Irishman downtown is reliable for any international fixture. Texas Live! in Arlington is ground zero for pregame right next to the stadium.
Beating the Heat
June and July in North Texas means 100°F and humidity. Inside AT&T Stadium you are fine. Outside: hydrate aggressively, wear sunscreen, and schedule your outdoor time around matches. The 1pm to 5pm window is for being indoors with a screen and a cold drink. Light clothing, a hat, and a refillable water bottle are non-negotiable.
The last time America hosted a World Cup was 1994. It will not come around again for a long time. Make a plan — or do not, and wander into the chaos. The World Cup is here, and North Texas is ready.