FIFA Fan Fest earns praise from mayor and visitors as 39-day event wraps up

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- After more than a month of international crowds, city leaders and residents say Philadelphia proved itself a strong host for this summer's FIFA Fan Fest and World Cup events.

The city drew fans from around the world to the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps, Center City, Lincoln Financial Field and Lemon Hill.

"The world saw Philadelphia at its best," Mayor Cherelle Parker said.

Parker declared the 39 day fan fest a success, saying, "We have established ourselves as the gold standard for outdoor festivals in the city of Philadelphia."

Michael Busch of Manayunk said the experience made him proud of his hometown.

"I think Philadelphia did this entire World Cup, fan fest, so well. I've been very proud to be from here," he said.

Final attendance numbers are still being calculated, but a spokesperson for the fan fest said the event surpassed 500,000 total visitors. Nearly 410,000 people attended the six matches played in South Philadelphia, representing more than 190 countries and territories.

Davin Newman of Northeast Philadelphia said, "I feel very grateful because this is like a once in a lifetime opportunity. I know it's probably not gonna be in America again, at least for a very long time. So I'm just trying to appreciate the moment."

For some residents, the festival brought challenges. Neighbors in Fairmount dealt with parking and traffic issues as crowds filled the area. Mayor Parker thanked them for their patience.

"Because listen - it was like an invasion in their backyard. But they were graceful and they were welcoming," she said.

While the soccer was the main attraction, the food and the concession stands were a big winner, too.

While the soccer was the main attraction, the food and the concession stands were a big winner too.

Fans consumed more than 290,000 beers during the tournament.

Hot dogs topped the menu with more than 55,000 sold.

Fans also embraced Philly classics, eating more than 46,000 soft pretzels, 37,000 orders of crab fries, and 26,500 cheesesteaks throughout the tournament.