The City of Decatur has announced Decatur WatchFest ‘26, a month-long festival celebrating the 2026 World Cup.
The FIFA World Cup will come to Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium for eight matches next summer during the June 11 to July 19 run, and Decatur will take advantage with a free 34-day soccer and music festival.
Residents and visitors can enjoy every FIFA match at one of Decatur’s 40+ official WatchFest pubs and restaurants, and select matches will be shown on a large screen in the Decatur Square. The festivities will also include nightly pre- and post-match concerts featuring local talent, games, activities, food, and more.
“We are looking forward to welcoming everyone and showcasing all that Decatur has to offer to the world’s soccer fans,” City of Decatur Mayor Patti Garrett said. “The events around soccer’s biggest matches will give our residents and those from surrounding areas and beyond a chance to be a part of the energy and excitement of this once in a lifetime top-level soccer competition.”
Visitors attending one (or more) of Atlanta’s matches are encouraged to join in the celebration and MARTA directly to Mercedes-Benz Stadium from the Decatur station.
The festival will take place on the newly renovated Decatur Square. Construction kicked off on April 17 and is set to be complete by 2026. The renovation will include a permanent stage, an expanded greenspace, a hillside play area, and public restrooms.
“Decatur WatchFest ‘26 will show the world what a great place Decatur is for fans and residents,” Garrett added. “We are excited about FIFA World Cup 26™ and have our fingers crossed that the Women’s World Cup will come to the U.S. in 2031 and we can celebrate again.”
More details will be announced as plans are finalized; visit decaturwatchfest2026.com to keep up to date.
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2025-05-06 17:59:18
