On view now through Nov. 1 with extended hours, the multi-sensory exhibition explores the life of one of the world’s most influential freedom fighters and political leaders whose vision continues to inspire
DALLAS (June 13, 2026) – Just in time for 2026 FIFA World Cup, the African American Museum, Dallas, today unveiled the internationally acclaimed Mandela: The Official Exhibition, on view now through Nov. 1, 2026. Free and open to the public, the museum is located in the heart of historic Fair Park at 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas 75210.
Mandela: The Official Exhibition explores the life of one of the world’s most recognizable champions of freedom and justice – whose vision of justice, service and reconciliation continues to inspire people around the globe. Presented in partnership with the City of Dallas, the exhibition serves as both a cultural anchor and welcoming destination for international visitors during World Cup “Fan Fest” activities at Fair Park.
“Nelson Mandela devoted his life to justice and to the fight against apartheid, enduring 27 years in prison before becoming South Africa’s first democratically elected president,” said Lisa Brown Ross, president and CEO of the African American Museum, Dallas. “This exhibition tells the full arc of his life and affirms the Museum’s role as a vital cultural destination for North Texas and for visitors from around the world.”
Dallas is hosting nine World Cup matches – the most of any U.S. city – and could draw up to 100,000 visitors per day.
Mandela had profound ties to soccer, embracing the sport as a tool for unity and hope in post-apartheid South Africa. From organizing matches while imprisoned to championing the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Mandela demonstrated how soccer could bridge deep divisions. His appearance at the tournament’s closing match, when he donned South Africa’s national team jersey, became an enduring symbol of sport’s power to unite a nation and inspire the world.
“That this exhibition coincides with the FIFA World Cup is especially meaningful,” Brown Ross continued. “Mandela believed deeply in the power of sport – particularly soccer – to bring people together knowing that shared humanity can transcend race, class and ideology.”
Mandela – revolutionary, political prisoner, world leader and elder statesman
The exhibition spans all four galleries and unfolds through multisensory experiences, tracing Mandela’s extraordinary journey from his rural childhood in the Eastern Cape to his decades of resistance against apartheid and his election as South Africa’s first democratically elected president.
His journey to becoming the “Father of South Africa” and a globally revered figure is presented in personal and revealing ways. Through his own reflections and stories shared by his family and those who knew him best, visitors will see Mandela – respectfully called Madiba – in a new light. Madiba is his Thembu clan name and is used as a sign of respect and affection.
One gallery is transformed into a fully immersive, multimedia environment that places visitors within defining chapters of Mandela’s life. Guests encounter rarely seen films, photographs and personal artifacts on loan from the Mandela family; museums and archives worldwide, illuminating the people, places and pivotal experiences that shaped one of the 20th century’s most remarkable leaders.
“Mandela’s extraordinary life reminds us that reconciliation and forgiveness require profound courage,” said Brown Ross. “This exhibition invites us to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit while connecting Dallas audiences – and our many international visitors – to the enduring values of understanding, leadership, community and grace.”
Education, youth and leadership – an essential learning opportunity
Margie J. Reese, the museum’s chief programs officer, noted that the Museum will extend Mandela’s message beyond the galleries with a slate of education initiatives, giving students and educators an introduction to Mandela as an “icon of liberation and peace.”
“Mandela received a Nobel Peace Prize for his role in ending apartheid peacefully. Through our programs, the Museum will encourage young people to explore Mandela’s principles of service, integrity, compassion, family and leadership while connecting those ideals to their own lives. Youth will learn that greatness is tangible and complex,” said Reese.
Produced by Round Room Live in partnership with The Royal House of Mandela (RHoM) and RHoM Investments, Mandela: The Official Exhibition has captivated audiences in major cities around the world for its innovative storytelling and emotional depth.
The African American Museum is located in historic Fair Park, and admission is free. Through Nov. 1, the Museum will offer extended hours Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Free self-parking is available in nearby lots.
For more information, go to aamdallas.org or call(214) 389-3196.
