A community-centered initiative designed to connect residents with World Cup excitement, as well as workforce opportunities, has announced two major events set for July 12 at the Elizabeth waterfront and July 13 at Kean University.
Game on! Culture Fest will feature family-friendly programming, workforce development opportunities, and cultural celebrations made possible through a collaborative partnership with local community partners, including the City of Elizabeth, the County of Union, and Welcome World — a major initiative launched by the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York/New Jersey Host Committee to connect local fans and visitors with small businesses and community events.
The Urban League of Union County and the Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth (HACE) are the official New Jersey World Cup Community Initiative grantees. The initiative is sponsored by Choose New Jersey, in partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York/New Jersey Host Committee.
The first event, a World Cup-inspired Family Festival, will take place on Sunday, July 12 (rain date: Saturday, July 18) from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Todd Bowles Waterfront Sports Complex, 185 Front St., in Elizabeth. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Soccer clinics will be provided by Champions for Change and special guests from the MLS.
The second event aims to provide local businesses and professionals with strategic partnerships through networking opportunities and workforce readiness and development programs. Sports, Business, & Leadership, will take place Monday, July 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave. In Union. This is also a free event, but registration is required.
"Game On Culture Fest is about bringing the excitement of the biggest tournament in the world to our local communities and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to be part of this historic moment,” said Crystal Orr, president & CEO of the Urban League of Union County.
“Through soccer activities, cultural performances, family-friendly entertainment, and community engagement, we are creating a celebration that highlights the power of sport to unite people, celebrate diversity, and inspire future generations,” Orr said.
Curtis Myers, Jr., deputy director of the Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth (HACE), noted that Union County and Elizabeth are among the most diverse communities in New Jersey, and the “Game On! Culture Fest” will celebrate that diversity.
"This event gives our residents and neighbors an opportunity to experience the excitement and impact of the World Cup right in their own backyard through cultural celebrations, workforce opportunities, entertainment, and youth soccer clinics,” Myers said. “We are proud to be a Choose New Jersey grantee and excited to bring a little bit of the world to Elizabeth.”
The July 12 festival itinerary includes:
- Youth soccer clinics, sports panels, and games led by professional soccer coaches and former players
- Live cultural showcases and diverse culinary offerings
- Arts, crafts, and wellness activities
- On-site community support including direct access to vital housing resources, social services, and employment opportunities.
Go to gameonnj.com for more information.
