"One question I have concerning World Cup in 2026 in Kansas City is this: How can we as local folks be involved in making it a great experience for visitors to our city? Is there a website or some other way to connect with the organizers if one wants to volunteer to help?" — Reader David G.

Hands-on help

If you wondered the same after reading our Annual Tourism Outlook recap, here are a few official ways to get involved with the effort:

Share your talents with KC2026's by submitting to theits official FIFA World Cup 26 Kansas City Host City Poster contest by Saturday, Oct. 26. Five finalists will earn $1,000 each, with the winning artist earning a $10,000 grand prize (and all the glory).
As World Cup-related projects roll in, local businesses will get first dibs on proposal requests — just make sure to fill out the World Cup Business Interest Form by the end of this year.
If you're down to do more than just volunteer, keep an eye out on KC2026's career page. It's currently on the lookout for a Director of Fan Fest and Events.

What's on the way

There's still a year and a half to go until the games make it to the Heartland (629 days to be exact), so exact details like Fan Festival programming and any public volunteering opportunities are still in the works. We'll be sure to share as soon as they're released.

In the meantime, CEO of Visit KC + KC Sports Commission Kathy Nelson says to keep doing what Kansas Citians always do: be friendly.

"It's our responsibility and we have a short time before it's gone to welcome these people to our community. [...] Your passion, your creativity, and your hospitality continue to welcome people to our city and makes this such a wonderful place to live, work, play, eat, hang out..."

And we couldn't agree more.