The North Texas FIFA World Cup 2026™ Organizing Committee recently hosted a media gathering at the renowned Billy Bob’s Texas, located in the Stockyards Historic District. This choice reflects the region’s rich traditions and cultural heritage, providing an authentic Texan experience complete with horses, country music, and lively entertainment.
As media representatives from across the globe arrived, they were welcomed by a vibrant atmosphere featuring cowboys, showgirls, and a live country band. Guests enjoyed a variety of attractions, including bull riding, armadillo races, and line dancing lessons, alongside opportunities to purchase Texas-themed souvenirs. They also had the chance to take photos with Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and Rowdy, the team’s mascot, enhancing the festive spirit of the occasion.
With the event’s main broadcast and local media activities centered in Downtown Dallas, the gathering is expected to draw numerous storytelling professionals to North Texas over the coming weeks. This setting was strategically chosen to provide visitors with a quintessential Texas experience right from the start of the World Cup festivities.
The venue was adorned with soccer-themed decorations, creating a unique blend of Texan culture and international soccer flair. Attendees had the opportunity to capture memorable photos alongside a replica of the World Cup trophy. Municipalities such as Arlington, Denton, Grand Prairie, and Mansfield showcased their local offerings, reminding attendees that the broader area encompasses much more than just the “Dallas” label commonly used by FIFA.
During the event, Nina Vaca, the Co-Chair of the Organizing Committee, along with Dallas Sports Commission Executive Director Monica Paul and the mayors of Fort Worth, Arlington, and Addison, highlighted the warm hospitality Texans are known for. Vaca even took the initiative to teach guests how to say, “Howdy,” ensuring they felt welcomed in their new surroundings.
