Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Friday, June 26, as the heart of White Center transforms into a massive soccer celebration. The “Gather for Goals” World Cup Community Festival will take over a three-block stretch of 16th Avenue SW from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering fans a unique way to experience the world’s largest soccer competition right in their own neighborhood.

World-Class Soccer on the Big Screen

The festival is a partnership between the King County Department of Local Services and White Center Pride, serving as the only official watch party of its kind in unincorporated King County. Fans can catch four major daytime matches on multiple large screens positioned along 16th Avenue SW:

• 12:00 p.m.: Norway vs. France
• 12:00 p.m.: Senegal vs. Iraq
• 5:00 p.m.: Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia
• 5:00 p.m.: Uruguay vs. Spain

More Than Just a Game

Beyond the matches, the event features a vibrant street festival atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy live music and DJs, outdoor street food, and dozens of local vendors. Families will find plenty to do in the kids' play area, which includes face painting and balloon artists.

Excitement is also building for the newly announced “GGGOOOAAALLL!!!” competition, where fans can win prizes by giving their best impression of the famous soccer celebratory shout.

Words from the Organizers

The event aims to showcase White Center’s diversity and community spirit. Leon Richardson, Director of the Department of Local Services, noted:

“The Gather for Goals watch party and festival is a chance to celebrate the world’s biggest sporting event while highlighting everything that makes White Center such a vibrant and special community. This is an incredible opportunity for our community to be part of a truly global experience”.

Eliot Hills, President of White Center Pride, added:

“White Center Pride is always game to help bring more joy, inclusion and togetherness in our community. We can’t wait to Gather for Goals!”.

Event Logistics

• Kickoff: King County Executive Girmay Zahilay will help open the event, with welcome remarks scheduled for approximately 11:45 a.m..
• Road Closures: 16th Avenue SW (from SW Roxbury Street to SW 100th Street) will be closed to vehicle traffic.
• Transportation: Attendees are strongly encouraged to take transit to the event.

For more information and updates, visit the King County Department of Local Services or follow White Center Pride on social media.