Local artists and performers invited to apply to take stage at FIFA Fan Festival™ Houston, which will open for 34 match days during the FIFA World Cup 2026™
HOUSTON, Texas (February 9, 2026) – As Houston prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston Host Committee announces a citywide search to showcase local talent to perform on the live stage at FIFA Fan Festival™ Houston. The goal of the search is to bring Houston’s own creative voices into the global spotlight for international audiences gathering from around the world.
Stretching across approximately four vibrant blocks of East Downtown, FIFA Fan Festival™ Houston will transform the neighborhood into a global gathering place—where visiting fans and Houstonians meet, mingle, and experience the electricity of the world’s biggest sporting event together. The festival will feature themed days, premium hospitality experiences, and nonstop entertainment, spotlighting Houston’s creative energy and local talent throughout the tournament. Admission is free and the open call invites Greater Houston-area musicians, dancers and performing acts to apply for the unique opportunity to perform in front of the vast audience that will be in attendance.
Initial applications in the form of video submissions are open now and close March 10, with in-person callbacks currently slated for early April. Performers interested in being a part of the once-in-a-lifetime FIFA World Cup™ moment can learn more about the process and submit their applications at fwc26houston.com/talent.
“The FIFA World Cup™ is about more than what happens on the pitch—it’s about the cities and communities that bring the tournament to life,” said Chris Canetti, president of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston Host Committee. “This talent search is an opportunity to put Houston’s creativity and diversity on full display, giving local performers a global platform as fans from around the world gather here for this experience.”
“The FIFA Fan Festival will be a place where culture, community and celebration come together every day of the tournament” said Patti Smith, Director of Houston’s FIFA Fan Festival™. “By centering local performers on our stage, we’re ensuring it will reflect the spirit of Houston and create moments that are truly unforgettable.”
FIFA Fan Festival™ Houston will feature a wide range of immersive attractions and fan experiences presented by world-class partners. With the festival being built with Houston’s summer climate in mind, the grounds will also include misting zones, water stations, shaded areas and on-site medical resources to help ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all attendees. Houston Hall, an air-conditioned retreat, will include local food and beverage vendors, as well as interactive experiences from Space Center Houston and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, with more attractions to be announced at a later date.
About the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston Host Committee
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston Host Committee, operating under the Sports Authority Foundation, collaborates with FIFA, the City of Houston, Harris County, and community stakeholders to ensure a world-class experience for players, fans, and visitors surrounding FIFA World Cup 2026™. Alongside stakeholders, the Host Committee oversees operations, safety, transportation and logistics for the seven FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches to take place at Houston Stadium and the open-to-the-public FIFA Fan Festival™ to be held in East Downtown Houston during the length of the tournament. A core tenet of the Host Committee is a commitment to leaving a lasting legacy in Houston beyond the tournament via initiatives that advance human rights, sustainability, and the growth of youth soccer. Learn more at FWC26 Houston.
Media Contacts
Carla Gomez, (936) 520-1910
Colin Spaulding, (832) 797-1430
