The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on June 11, and while it’s coming to Atlanta with eight matches hosted at Mercedes-Benz Stadium beginning on June 15, cities across metro Atlanta will also be joining in on the festivities. Businesses in Tucker will host several watch parties and events, and officers with the DeKalb County Police Department have tips to keep Tucker residents safe.
World Cup safety
The DeKalb County Police Department’s Tucker precinct hosted a virtual community meeting on June 9 during which they spoke with Tucker residents and local businesses about how to stay safe during the FIFA World Cup. A detective from the precinct suggested traveling in groups if out in the crowds near the stadium in downtown Atlanta, avoiding scanning unknown barcodes to prevent getting scammed, and preventing car break-ins by not leaving items in the car.
For non-emergency situations, residents are encouraged to call the report line at 404-294-2911.
Related story: All Stripes and Pride House ensure LGBTQ+ safety during Atlanta World Cup
Local watch parties and events
Tucker residents don’t have to travel to downtown Atlanta to enjoy the World Cup. Tucker Brewing Company will be hosting watch parties for World Cup matches. The World Soccer Watch Party Series will have live screenings of matches on Wednesdays through Sundays from June 11 to July 19 except for July 4 and July 12. The whole calendar of match times and teams can be found on Tucker Brewing Company’s website.
On June 24, the Londzell Performing Arts Theatre is hosting a special Soccer City Concert Bash. The free event will include live performances by Melisa Brown, DJ Smokedog, Tamika Patton, A Girl Named K, Bonita Jalane, and DJ Elektrk; photo moments and fan experiences; food and specialty cocktails; and a live screening of the match between Haiti and Morocco at 6 p.m.
The event begins at noon with a teen fan zone for kids ages 8 to 19 with family-friendly activities like a soccer skills challenge, a trivia quiz, DIY fan gear, virtual and augmented reality experiences, and more. The Soccer City Concert Bash is free with paid upgrades; more information and tickets can be found on Londzell Theatre’s website.
Decatur WatchFest
If you’re looking for some more World Cup fun, a short drive will bring you to Decatur WatchFest, a citywide World Cup celebration. The festivities will include 14 free live music performances at the newly renovated Decatur Square. Performers for the free concerts include Drivin N Cryin, Kasper Rouser and the 911 Band, and Macon Music Revue.
The Decatur WatchFest activities also include ticketed concerts by Big Boi on June 11, The War and Treaty on June 25, and the Indigo Girls on July 19. Other activities include games, activities, food and beverages, and live viewings of the World Cup matches, which will be displayed on three large screens in Decatur Square and at participating soccer pubs and restaurants.
Related story: FIFA World Cup Atlanta party guide: watch parties, fan fests, and soccer events
