Sunny South Dallas Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026 With Grand Opening of Volunteer Center at Fair Park

Under clear skies and an even brighter sense of anticipation, Sunny South Dallas took center stage Tuesday as city leaders, FIFA partners, and community members officially opened the FIFA World Cup Volunteer Center at Fair Park.

The new hub, located inside the historic Food and Fiber Pavilion, marks a major milestone in Dallas’s march toward hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The ceremony drew representatives from the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, Dallas City Council, Park and Recreation Board, and numerous community organizations. With Dallas set to host nine World Cup matches, more than any other North American city, enthusiasm for the global tournament continues to build throughout the region.

Monica Paul, president of the organizing committee, hailed the opening as the beginning of the volunteer selection journey for more than 6,000 individuals who will support operations across North Texas. “Volunteers are truly the backbone of any successful sporting event,” Paul said, praising the overwhelming community response.

Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert highlighted both the pride and opportunity rooted in the neighborhood hosting the new center.

“Good morning, Sunny South Dallas. Y’all look so good out there,” Tolbert said, celebrating the community’s role in welcoming the world.

Tolbert emphasized the city’s united commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience next summer. “We’re going to clean up real nice, and we’re going to look good for the world,” she said, adding that every department—from public safety to cultural affairs—is aligned to ensure Dallas shines on the global stage.

Photo courtesy Derrick Walker

Local leaders echoed her message of unity and excitement. Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Moreno praised Dallas volunteers as the city’s future ambassadors, ready to greet visitors “with a smile and a strong willingness to help.” Council member Chad West emphasized that the World Cup is “for everybody,” promising opportunities for all residents to participate, whether as volunteers or attendees.

Park Board representatives Lane Conner and Daniel Wood reflected on Fair Park’s legacy and its evolving role as a home for global events. They celebrated FIFA’s transformation of the Food and Fiber Pavilion and reaffirmed commitments to community-centered improvements in the surrounding neighborhoods.

After remarks ended, officials gathered in front of the pavilion for a ceremonial ribbon cutting, marking the official launch of the volunteer center. As scissors closed and applause rose, the moment symbolized both the city’s readiness and South Dallas’s pride in hosting one of the world’s most watched sporting events.

Guests were then invited inside to tour the new space—now energized with imagery blending Dallas’s heritage and FIFA’s international identity—setting the tone for the thousands of volunteers who will walk through its doors in the months ahead.

With the World Cup fast approaching, Tuesday’s celebration affirmed what many leaders repeated throughout the morning: Dallas is prepared, South Dallas is shining, and the world is on its way.

Derrick Walker contributed to this article.