The City of Kearney is thrilled to announce Cleats & Beats, a FREE premier community FanFest, watch party, and concert event taking place Friday, June 19, at Jesse James Park beginning at 11 a.m. This high-energy event combines the excitement of the world’s biggest sporting event with the best of local entertainment.
As soccer fever sweeps the nation, Kearney is proud to invite the community to a special public screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ match between the USA and Australia. We are excited to be one of seven Northland locations hosting a live viewing in partnership with GONorth KC, bringing the global game to our own backyard on a massive outdoor screen.
"Cleats & Beats is designed to bring that stadium-sized energy right here to our local park,” said Mayor Randy Pogue. “Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or just looking for a great once-in-a-lifetime event out with your neighbors, this event has something for everyone. We are honored to partner with GONorthKC to ensure Kearney is a destination for fans across the region.”
Cleats & Beats
FanFest: Join in the family fun
Drop-in Soccer Clinic: 11 AM - 1 PM Kids can learn from Challenger Sports international coaches in our FREE Soccer Clinic. Participate in soccer drills and activities and get tips and instruction from our international coaching staff. Big Energy in the Kids Zone! Got a future soccer star with too much energy? Send ‘em to the Cleats & Beats Kids Zone! We’re filling Jesse James Park with giant bounce houses to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy the match and the music. ✅ Free Entry ✅ Giant Inflatables ✅ Maximum Fun
Watch Party - 2 PM FIFA World Cup 2026™ match between the USA and Australia One HUGE Screen. 🏟️💥
We’re going BIG for the match! Skip the "squinting at your phone" and join us at 2 p.m. to watch the action unfold on our Giant LED Screen. ☀️ Pro-Tip: Our screen is built for the daylight, so the picture stays sharp and vibrant all afternoon long. It’s the closest you can get to the pitch without actually being in the game! See you at 2 p.m. for the best seat in the house (well, the park!). ⚽️🏃♂️
Concert Following the match, the celebration continues with the "Beats" portion of the event. High-energy party band The Bangerz will take the stage, performing a non-stop set of fan favorites. A live DJ will also be on-site to keep the atmosphere electric throughout the day.
Food Trucks, Concessions & even more FUN
In addition to the world-class soccer and live music, attendees can enjoy:
- Concessions - Hamburgers, hotdogs and other All-American Favorites, along with a beer garden, by the Knights of Columbus.
- Food Trucks: A variety of local flavors and game-day snacks.
- Selfie Stations: Custom-designed photo ops to capture memories with friends and family.
Here are a few pro-tips: 🪑 Seating: It’s all "lawn seating," so bring your best blankets and bag chairs. 🚗 Parking: Arrive early to snag a spot—follow the signs when you enter the park! ☀️ Prep: Don't forget the sunscreen for the afternoon ! Reminder - No dogs or coolers are allowed in the Kearney Amphitheater area. Be sure to subscribe to our text messages to stay-up-to-date, get reminders & safety messages during the event.
Cleats & Beats is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of what makes our hometown great. But an event this big doesn't happen by magic—it happens because of neighbors like YOU.
Follow Cleats & Beats on social media
Credits:
Created with an image by Jacob Lund - "Argentinian spectators in stadium cheering their team"