​Soccer fans crowded Centennial Olympic Park on Saturday as Atlanta gears up to host a World Cup semifinal on Wednesday at Atlanta Stadium. The quarterfinal games determined which teams will move on to play in the city, and spectators gathered at Fan Fest to catch every moment of the action. “We’re super excited that England’s coming to Atlanta,” England supporter Deandra Saddler told Channel 2’s Eryn Rogers. Kylie Reeder and her grandfather already plan to be inside Atlanta Stadium for the final World Cup game hosted in the city. “I’m so excited. It’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m so happy for it,” Reeder said. For some fans, Fan Fest offered a chance to soak up the World Cup atmosphere without a ticket to the actual match. “I couldn’t afford to go to the actual World Cup, so might as well go to the Fan Fest, see all what’s it about,” said Jacob Flores, a Fan Fest attendee.
The festivities, however, were not without their challenges. Fan Fest was set to open at 3 p.m., but organizers delayed entry by about an hour and a half due to storms in the area. “It was because of severe weather, so we had to wait outside,” Flores noted. Many attendees spent hours waiting in the rain before being allowed inside. “I didn’t expect it to rain twice on me. It’s crazy. My skirt is drenched!” exclaimed Kristen Edwards, another Fan Fest participant.
Beyond the weather, visitors noticed a stronger police presence around Centennial Olympic Park. Officers were visible throughout the area, and at least one person was escorted out of the festival. “We’ve seen lots of security,” Saddler said. Large vehicles and law enforcement blocked streets leading into the park as Atlanta readies for the semifinal showdown. The Atlanta Police Department issued a statement noting that, with the city hosting a FIFA World Cup semifinal and welcoming more residents and visitors, they have heightened public safety measures. “Additional personnel and resources are already deployed and will continue to be strategically assigned in and around the event venues, entertainment districts, and other high-traffic areas to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. These proactive measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity, and ensure residents and visitors can safely enjoy this historic event.”
Fans at Fan Fest praised the city’s efforts to keep guests safe, with Nathan Pope remarking, “That’s what we do in the ATL. We put on for the city.” The World Cup semifinal is scheduled for Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Atlanta Stadium, and Fan Fest will continue through the week, with the final two events set for Tuesday and Wednesday.