By: Richard L. Smith
The countdown is underway for one of Union County’s largest free summer events as organizers prepare to welcome residents and visitors to the two-day Game On! Culture Fest, a celebration of sports, culture, business, and community inspired by the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Presented by the Urban League of Union County and the Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth, the event serves as New Jersey’s official World Cup Community Initiative and is supported by Choose New Jersey, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and the FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York/New Jersey Host Committee.
The festivities begin Sunday, July 12, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Todd Bowles Waterfront Sports Complex in Elizabeth.
Organizers encourage attendees to wear their country’s soccer jersey or traditional cultural attire as the event opens with a flag presentation representing nations participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Visitors can expect a full afternoon of entertainment featuring DJs Drewski and Matt Knight, along with cultural performances by the Unique Line Dancers, Zawadi African Dance & Drum, and Samba Novo Brazilian Music & Dance.
The festival will also feature free youth soccer clinics, interactive games, arts and crafts, wellness activities, cultural exhibits, food vendors, and community resource organizations offering information on housing, employment, education, and social services.
A lineup of respected soccer professionals and sports leaders is scheduled to participate throughout the day, including Gotham FC Assistant Coach Shaun Harris, New York Red Bulls Technical Director Tiger Fitzpatrick, FIFA World Cup 2026 Team Liaison Officer Kevin Messam, FIFA-licensed player agent Maggie Ntim, NYU Women’s Soccer Head Coach Scott Waddell, Chelsea Piers Director Brandon Turner, and several other nationally recognized coaches and youth development leaders.
The celebration continues Monday, July 13, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Kean University’s STEM Building in Union with the Game On! Sports, Business & Leadership Summit.
The evening will focus on career development, entrepreneurship, networking, workforce opportunities, and leadership while continuing the festival’s sports and cultural programming.
Admission to both events is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required.
For tickets and additional event information, visit www.gameonnj.com.