By 1808Delaware
There are moments when a global event feels local. This summer, that’s exactly what will happen in Central Ohio.
As the FIFA World Cup arrives in North America, the Columbus Crew is planning a series of public gatherings designed to bring the tournament home. These “Soccer Celebrations” will offer fans a place to watch, connect, and take part in something larger than any single match. The idea is to create shared spaces where people can experience the World Cup together, whether they follow the sport closely or just want to be part of the atmosphere.
Dublin Takes the Opening Kick
If there is a centerpiece to this lineup, it’s the opening night in Dublin.
Bridge Park will host the first Soccer Celebration on Friday, June 12, setting the tone for everything that follows. The choice of location is not accidental. Bridge Park has become one of the region’s most active public gathering spaces, and it’s well suited for an event that depends on energy, movement, and crowd interaction.
The match itself brings immediate stakes. The United States Men’s National Team opens against Paraguay, with kickoff set for 9:00 PM. A late evening start, in a walkable district already known for dining and nightlife, gives this one a built-in advantage.
More Than Just a Watch Party
Each event will center around a live match broadcast, but the Crew is aiming for something broader. Expect pre-match activities, fan engagement, and a festival-like setting that builds throughout the day. The focus is as much on community as it is on competition, with an emphasis on bringing together longtime supporters, casual fans, and newcomers to the sport.
Mary Shepro, the Crew’s President of Business Operations, put it plainly.
“This is a historic year for the sport in our city and across the country,” she said, noting that the goal is to create opportunities for people across Central Ohio to gather and celebrate throughout the tournament.
A Regional Approach
Rather than centering everything in one place, the Crew is spreading events across the region, reflecting how Central Ohio actually lives and moves today.
The full schedule includes:
- Friday, June 12 – Bridge Park, Dublin
Match broadcast: 9:00 PM
USMNT vs. Paraguay - Friday, June 19 – Columbus Commons
Match broadcast: 3:00 PM
USMNT vs. Australia - Thursday, June 25 – Land-Grant Brewing Company
Activations begin: 1:00 PM
Match broadcast: 10:00 PM
USMNT vs. TBD (Group opponent) - Sunday, July 19 – Scotts Miracle-Gro Field
Match broadcast: 3:00 PM
Tournament Final
All events are free and open to the public.
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