Goleta Kicks Off Summer Soccer Fun With Community Watch Party

More Than 200 Community Members Gather to Watch the Team USA Opening Match

The Goleta Community Center was packed with soccer fans on Friday, June 12, 2026 as more than 200 community members gathered for the City’s free community Watch Party.

Families, friends and neighbors came together to watch Team USA open its tournament run with an exciting 4-1 victory over Team Paraguay while enjoying an evening full of food, games and community spirit.

The first 100 attendees received a free taco plate or burrito from Don Pepe’s Mexican Food, and everyone stayed hydrated thanks to complimentary bottled water provided by The Water Store (5575 Hollister Avenue, Suite D) in Goleta.

The event featured a strong family turnout, with children taking part in a bucket ball challenge for a chance to earn prize drawing tickets. Lucky winners took home soccer scarves, custom “Live, Work, Play” City of Goleta soccer balls, a soccer jersey and Team Austria gym bags.

If you missed the fun, there are still more opportunities to join in. Meet Me in Old Town will feature outdoor watch parties in Old Town Goleta for Team Colombia vs. Team Uzbekistan on Wednesday, June 17, and Team Mexico vs. Team Czechia on Wednesday, June 24. Community members can also enjoy additional family-friendly activities, booths, and vendors at these events.

Mark your calendars for July 14, when the City hosts another community watch party for the first semifinal match of the tournament. Additional details will be announced soon.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a memorable evening of soccer, family fun and community connection. We look forward to seeing you at future events throughout the summer.