READING, Pa. — The opening match of the World Cup brought fans together in downtown Reading. And they didn’t have to travel far to be part of the excitement.
The Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce transformed a courtyard on Penn Street into a giant watch party with food, music, vendors, and one very big screen.
“Today is the grand kickoff because the World Cup is here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said State Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz.
Organizers say the goal is about more than soccer. It’s about bringing people together, and giving families a place to celebrate for free.
“To give people that opportunity to celebrate, to watch games for free in their own communities,” Cepeda-Freytiz said.
And judging by the turnout, the idea is already working.
“This is a phenomenal activity that Reading is doing for all the residents here,” said Elvis Narváez.
Narváez has been playing soccer since he was five years old. Now he coaches local teams. And says events like this help bring the community together.
“Why not have it in your own city where you just got to walk, bring a chair, get with neighbors and enjoy the game,” he said.
Organizers say more Summer of Soccer events are planned throughout the season as communities across Berks County celebrate the World Cup.
For more World Cup stories, you can head to the World Cup section on wfmz.com.