The city of Pico Rivera in southeast Los Angeles County will host its first “World Spirit Festival” on June 26-27, featuring a combination of World Cup soccer party, classic car show, 5K run, live performances, amusement rides, beer garden, and vendor market, providing entertainment for everyone. The event is expected to attract 30,000 to 40,000 attendees.
Mayor Gustavo Camacho stated, “The celebration turns our streets into a gathering place for families, cultures, and global sports, showcasing a vibrant, interconnected, and hospitable community.” He added, “Unlike traditional fan zones only focused on soccer and viewing parties, we aim to enhance local culture while promoting the revival of historic Whittier Boulevard. It’s a unique opportunity.”
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the first time, the tournament features a record-setting scale with 48 teams and 104 matches from June 11 to July 29. Of the 14 games in California, 8 will be held at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, opened in 2020.
Javier Hernandez, the city’s Director of Innovation and Communication, shared, “We have received funding from the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority. On the 27th, we will host a grand ‘Open Streets’ event, merging the FIFA matches with the annual summer street festival, aiming to attract more people to experience our community, culture, and spirit while boosting economic development.”
The event will span Whittier Boulevard, the San Gabriel River, and the Smith Park Sports Center area. Fernando Dutra, Chair of the Metro Board, expressed pride in supporting the city through the ‘Open Streets’ funding to redevelop Whittier Boulevard as a people-centered, community-connecting corridor to parks and local destinations.
The name “Pico Rivera” partly derives from the last governor of Mexican Alta California, Pio Pico. The city covers a small area of 8.88 square miles, with a relatively high population density. Of its 62,000 residents, 91% are Latinx or Hispanic, with 21.3% under the age of 18. Pico Rivera has sister city relationships with four cities in Mexico, offering a taste of Mexican culture.
The inaugural “World Spirit Festival” aims to lay the groundwork for the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics, preparing to welcome visitors from around the world. City Manager Steve Carmona expressed gratitude for the ‘Open Streets’ funding, bridging the gap between driving, public transit, and emerging modes of transportation like bicycles, roller skates, and scooters.
Organizers hope that this event will become a “cherished tradition” for the city and the surrounding areas, akin to the Rose Parade, attracting people with its festive spirit.
State Assemblywoman Lisa Calderon remarked, “This celebration marks an exciting beginning for professional soccer in Pico Rivera, creating opportunities for the next generation.” She added, “By activating public spaces, investing in youth programs, and supporting local businesses, the city sets a strong example, demonstrating how global events can truly benefit communities and have lasting effects beyond the soccer matches.”