As the World Cup wraps up, the atmosphere beyond the stadium gates has been captured by photographers from NPR stations. Their images reveal the passion, anticipation, and emotions shared by fans gathering in various settings—watch parties near stadiums, urban street corners, and community parks.
These photographs, paired with reflections from the photographers, depict how communities have embraced the World Cup, turning it into a local experience.
Capturing Moments of Unity and Celebration
Guests in the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center’s wave pool watch Norway play against Senegal on June 22 in Chula Vista, California. The resort was filled with young families for Father’s Day, hoping to beat a heat wave, and as soon as the game came on, people began to gather around the screen. Riley Arthur/KPBS
In the initial days of the Cup, a watch party in downtown Chula Vista, California, drew around 25,000 people, creating a lively atmosphere. In contrast, the gathering at the Gaylord resort felt more intimate. As Riley Arthur reflected, capturing the surreal scene of fans cheering for international teams in a familiar San Diego setting was a moment not to be missed. — Riley Arthur, KPBS
A Diverse Sporting Experience
U.S. fans gather to watch their team rout Paraguay 4-1 during the FIFA World Cup on Friday, June 12, outside Amsterdam Tavern in south St. Louis. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio
In St. Louis, more than 1,000 fans assembled outside Amsterdam Tavern to witness the U.S. Men’s National Team’s opening World Cup match against Paraguay. Jeff Lyell, co-owner, transformed the street with a giant screen, creating a genuine watch party atmosphere. This event highlighted the city’s vibrant soccer culture and its historical ties to the sport. — Brian Munoz, STLPR
Community Spirit and Fan Passion
American Outlaws St. Louis Chapter President Kevin Marshall (second from left) takes a selfie alongside club members and St. Louisans who set up their TV for hundreds to watch after a power outage cut the USMNT vs. Paraguay stream outside Amsterdam Tavern on Friday, June 12, in south St. Louis. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio
During the U.S.-Paraguay match, a power outage at Amsterdam Tavern turned fans’ attention to phones as they tried to keep up with the game. Connor McDonald and Cole Kline managed to keep the spirit alive by holding up a TV, allowing the crowd to continue enjoying the match. — Brian Munoz, STPLR
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This article was originally written by www.npr.org
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