The Board of Commissioners will join Governor Mikie Sherrill, Congressman Donald Norcross, local and state officials, and thousands of soccer fans at SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront to kick off the Norway vs. France and Senegal vs. Iraq matches at 3 p.m.
“It is truly an honor to have Governor Sherrill join us at SoccerFest26. This event wouldn’t be possible without the Governor advocating for South Jersey to receive grant funding from Choose New Jersey,” said Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. “Our SoccerFest26 pregame party is the best way to get ready for the Friday afternoon games, and we encourage everyone to join us.”
Beginning at 1:30 p.m. ahead of the 3 p.m. matches there will be $10 vouchers for the food and merchandise vendors and spectators will have the opportunity to win a special World Cup package.
From June 25-27, the Camden Waterfront will transform into South Jersey’s ultimate World Cup watch party as Visit South Jersey presents SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront, a free three-day festival packed with soccer, food, music, family fun, giveaways, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan, a family looking for a fun summer outing, or simply someone who loves great food and live entertainment, SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront offers something for everyone.
Residents and visitors can watch World Cup matches on giant screens overlooking the waterfront, sample flavors from around the world at international food trucks, enjoy wine and beer tastings featuring some of South Jersey’s most celebrated and award-winning wineries and breweries, shop local vendors, and experience live entertainment from South Jersey-based musicians and artists throughout the weekend.
Kids can burn off energy in inflatable play areas while fans of all ages compete in games, challenges, and giveaways. Visitors will also have opportunities to score exclusive World Cup-themed scarves and other swag throughout the festival.
The festival will feature broadcasts of World Cup matches from around the globe, creating an electric atmosphere as fans gather to cheer on their favorite teams while enjoying some of the best food, beverages, and entertainment South Jersey has to offer.
Beyond the matches, SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront will showcase the region’s vibrant arts and music scene with live performances throughout the weekend. South Jersey-based band CraVed will kick off the festivities on Thursday, followed by trumpeter, composer and arranger Matt Cappy and Tonks on Friday and Tara Hendricks and Cintron on Saturday.
Young Soccer Stars Take the Field
Before the festival kicks off each day, approximately 300 young athletes will take part in the SoccerFest26 Live Play Zone, presented in partnership with Rutgers University-Camden Athletics and the New Jersey Youth Soccer Association.
Players will participate in fun, fast-paced 4v4 and 5v5 games led by Rutgers-Camden student-athletes and coaches while competing for soccer balls, water bottles, and other prizes.
Daily youth sessions include:
· Ages 6-8: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
· Ages 9-11: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
· Ages 12-14+: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
“We want people to come early, stay late, and experience everything the festival has to offer,” Snyder said. “Watch a match. Try food from another country. Discover a new local winery. Listen to great music. Let your kids play soccer. This is the kind of event where every hour offers something new.”
Admission is free, but advance registration is required. SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront takes place June 25-27 at Wiggins Waterfront Park in Camden and is expected to be one of South Jersey’s largest World Cup celebrations.
Register HERE.
To learn more about SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront, please visit https://visitsouthjersey.com/soccerfest26-at-the-camden-waterfront/.