The free “Summer of Soccer at Sundance Square” event is officially underway. Here’s what you need to know.
Watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup just got a whole lot easier—and more fun—thanks to the newly launched “Summer of Soccer at Sundance Square” event. The celebration held its official opening on Saturday, May 23, where over two dozen giant soccer balls were unveiled to the public. Each was designed by a local artist. The art director for Sundance Square, Sarah Ayala, said, “These soccer balls are joyful, highly visible, and deeply local.”
Ayala added, “Each artist brings their own point of view to a form everyone immediately recognizes. Together, the installation becomes a celebration of soccer, but also of the artists and creative voices that make Fort Worth such a dynamic cultural city.” They will remain on display in the Sundance Square Plaza until June 7, after which time they’ll be reinstalled across the square and remain there until the summer is over.
In terms of the actual events being held during the “Summer of Soccer” extravaganza, fans will be treated to two entire months of family-friendly celebrations, live music, watch parties, and public art. Those watch parties will be held for all 104 matches scheduled to take place between June 11 and July 19. As the games are being played on screen, visitors will also have the opportunity to visit bars and food vendors, participate in activities the entire family will enjoy, and dance to live music played by DJs.
The head of special events and community engagement at Sundance Square, Albert Rios, said in a press release, “With Texas playing such an important role on a global stage this summer, Sundance Square has a special opportunity to welcome fans and celebrate the energy of our city and the tournament.” He added, “Summer of Soccer gives people a place to gather and cheer for their favorite teams. We’re creating a neighborhood party on a global stage, where good food, great music and true Fort Worth hospitality are all part of the experience.”
Dallas-Fort Worth will become a soccer hub in a few short weeks
Arlington’s AT&T Stadium will temporarily operate under a different name during the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Dallas Stadium. Nine matches will be held there, which is more than any other stadium located in host cities across the world. The first match scheduled at Dallas Stadium is the June 14 matchup between Netherlands and Japan, which you’ll be able to enjoy for free at Sundance Square during its “Summer of Soccer” event that day, along with all the others.
Kickoff on June 14 is scheduled for 3 p.m. The next game played in Arlington will be England vs. Croatia on June 17—that will also start at 3 p.m. Argentina and Austria will face off there at 12 p.m. on June 22, and Japan and Sweden will play at 6 p.m. on June 25. The Jordan vs. Argentina match on June 27 starts at 9 p.m.
