What to know about this weekend's World Cup kickoff

What to expect: Take pictures with the KC2026 countdown clock. Meet Sporting KC players and join a city rally with former defender and KC native Matt Besler. Listen to live performances by the Chiefs' drumline and supporter sections from the KC Current and Sporting KC.

• Kids can get their faces painted, and visitors can shop at the makers market.
• Business owners can access planning tools, guidance and networking opportunities in preparation for the anticipated influx of more than 650,000 fans from around the world.

Between the lines: Organizers said they need about 6,000 volunteers over 40 days, the Kansas City Star reported last month.

• The volunteer village at the kickoff event will have information on interviews and training.

Dig in: 13 local food trucks are scheduled to serve everything from barbecue to tacos, Hawaiian food and ice cream.

• Don't forget to save some room for the beer garden.

If you go: Festivities take place from 1-5pm at the Aspiria Campus at 6240 Sprint Parkway in Overland Park, Kansas.

• Free parking is available in the garage north of the field.
• Bring your own water bottle for the refill station.
• Any bag bigger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches that's not a diaper bag needs to be transparent. See the full bag policy on the event site.

Go deeper: KC's World Cup poster is pure hometown admiration