Houston is officially on the world stage as the city prepares to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the excitement is already building across the hospitality and events industry. For Cosmo Cool Concepts owner Juliana Wathen, the tournament represents far more than a global sporting event — it’s an opportunity to showcase Houston’s energy, creativity, and ability to host unforgettable experiences.
With more than three decades of experience producing corporate, cultural, and international events, Juliana understands what it takes to deliver on a global scale. As she recently shared in OutSmart Magazine, the World Cup will bring an unprecedented wave of visitors, media attention, and economic activity to the region — and how Houston rises to the occasion could shape the city’s reputation for years to come.
One of the most exciting aspects of the tournament is the extended timeline. Unlike a single championship weekend, the World Cup unfolds over several weeks, creating space for immersive fan experiences, watch parties, and large-scale activations throughout the city. Juliana sees this as a chance for Houston to do what it does best: bring people together through culture, entertainment, food, and hospitality.
Cosmo Cool Concepts is already preparing for that moment. From transportation and staffing to entertainment, lighting, sound, décor, and multilingual support, the Cosmo team is positioned to support a wide range of events tied to World Cup activity. Fan zones, corporate gatherings, hospitality tents, and citywide celebrations will all require thoughtful planning and seamless execution — the kind of work Cosmo has been delivering for years.
Juliana also emphasized the broader impact the World Cup will have beyond the stadiums. Visitors will explore Houston neighborhoods, experience local music and cuisine, and travel throughout the region to destinations like Galveston, NASA, Uptown, and beyond. The ripple effect will be felt across small businesses, venues, vendors, and service providers citywide.
As Houston prepares to welcome the world, Cosmo Cool Concepts is proud to be part of the effort. The 2026 World Cup is more than a milestone moment — it’s an opportunity to demonstrate Houston’s creativity, hospitality, and global appeal, one unforgettable experience at a time.