Soccer Tejas
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HOUSTON — The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take another leap forward following the tournament draw this December.
The Houston Dynamo announced its Houston Soccer Celebration, a new series of fan-focused events launching this December at Shell Energy Stadium in hopes of transforming East Downtown into a soccer and community hub leading up to next summer’s tournament.
⚽ Free Fan Festival Set for December 6
The celebration begins Saturday, Dec. 6, with the Houston Soccer Celebration Kickoff, presented by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The free, family-friendly event runs from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m., one day after the FIFA World Cup Draw, and invites fans of all ages to celebrate the sport and the city’s role in hosting the world’s biggest tournament.
Visitors can expect an exciting mix of soccer, community engagement, and holiday fun—all designed to bring Houstonians together as the city prepares to welcome the world in 2026.
🎉 What to Expect at Houston Soccer Celebration Kickoff
Here’s what fans can look forward to at the Dec. 6 event:
- Get Game-Ready with MD Anderson: Enjoy games, wellness activities, and giveaways to stay healthy and active on and off the pitch.
- Houston Food Bank Record Attempt: Help create history by joining the largest single-day off-site food packing event in Houston Food Bank history, supporting local families ahead of the holidays.
- On-Pitch Dynamo Skills Challenge: Step onto the Dynamo’s home turf and show off your best moves for a shot at becoming the Skills Challenge Champion.
- Kids’ Soccer Clinic: Young fans ages 6–14 can learn from Houston Dynamo coaches during free on-field sessions (registration required).
- Family Fun on the Concourse: Face painting, balloon artists, photo ops, and soccer-themed games for all ages.
- World Cup Bracket Challenge: Predict the 2026 tournament results for a chance to win prizes—including 2027 Houston Dynamo season tickets for a perfect bracket.
- Holiday Cheer: Capture a festive photo at the holiday card station, meet Santa Diesel, and find exclusive gifts at the Dynamo Team Store.
- Exclusive Perks for Season Ticket Members: Current and prospective Dynamo season ticket members can enjoy VIP experiences and tours of premium areas.
Fans can sign up now to be first in line for free event tickets when registration opens.
🏟️ Shell Energy Stadium: Houston’s World Cup Hub
Located in East Downtown (EaDo), Shell Energy Stadium will play a central role during the 2026 World Cup. In addition to match-day festivities, the venue will host watch parties, interactive fan activations, and premium hospitality throughout the tournament.
Private group events will also be available next summer inside air-conditioned lounges, luxury suites, and pitchside spaces. For booking inquiries, fans can email Booking@HoustonDynamo.com.
💬 What They’re Saying
“We are thrilled to welcome the largest sporting event in the world to our city and plan to make Shell Energy Stadium and the greater neighborhood the center of soccer celebrations in Houston. Together with our fans and partners, we will showcase our global city to visitors and celebrate the people and culture who make Houston great.”
– Houston Dynamo FC President of Business Operations Jessica O’Neill.
“We’re proud to collaborate with the Houston Dynamo to make Shell Energy Stadium a place where our community can come together to celebrate the world’s game. Moments like the World Cup remind us how powerful connection and teamwork can be—values that also drive our mission to end cancer.”
– Brette Peyton, vice president, External Affairs at MD Anderson.
“Soccer brings people together like few things can, and that sense of unity is exactly what drives our work every day at Houston Food Bank. We’re honored to join the Houston Dynamo in celebrating this global moment for Houston while helping local families prepare for the holiday season.”
– Brian Greene, president and CEO of Houston Food Bank.
🏆 Houston’s World Cup Matches
Houston will host seven World Cup 2026 matches at NRG Stadium, including:
- Five group-stage games: June 14, 17, 20, 23, and 26
- Two knockout-stage matches: June 29 and July 4
Shell Energy Stadium will also serve as a training base for participating nations.
📅 The Road to 2026 Starts Now
With Houston set to take center stage on the global soccer map, Houston Soccer Celebration marks the city’s first major event leading up to the tournament. Expect more events, watch parties, and community initiatives throughout 2025 and beyond.
Fans can visit HoustonDynamo.com for event updates, registration links, and World Cup news as Houston counts down to the beautiful game’s biggest stage.
