As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to draw global attention to the United States, the East Point Convention & Visitors Bureau (EPCVB) has joined efforts to leverage the tournament’s international profile by promoting tourism and economic opportunities in the city.
The Bureau hosted a series of activities involving former footballers, tourism stakeholders, community leaders and supporters, with programmes centred on fan engagement, youth football, hospitality networking and community celebrations.
The initiative reflects a broader trend among cities within the Atlanta metropolitan area seeking to maximise the economic and tourism benefits associated with the World Cup, one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
East Point, located near Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and a short distance from downtown Atlanta, is positioning itself to attract visitors travelling to the region during the tournament.
Officials from the Bureau said major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup provide opportunities to stimulate local economies through increased visitor spending, business activity and employment.
They also stressed the need for the tournament to leave a lasting legacy beyond the final whistle, arguing that investments in tourism, hospitality and community development should continue after the World Cup concludes.
“This celebration is about more than football,” Bureau representatives said. “It is about showcasing East Point to the world, building lasting partnerships and strengthening our tourism economy.”
The Bureau said it hopes the exposure generated by the World Cup will encourage repeat visits and future investment, while supporting local businesses and the hospitality sector.
With millions of fans expected to travel across host cities during the tournament, communities surrounding Atlanta are increasingly looking beyond matchdays, viewing the World Cup as an opportunity to strengthen their long-term tourism and economic development strategies rather than simply hosting visitors during the competition.
