Kearney Hosts World Cup Watch Party and Concert

The City of Kearney is thrilled to announce Cleats & Beats, a premier community FanFest, watch party, and concert event set for Friday, June 19, 2026, at Jesse James Park beginning at 11 am. This high-energy celebration brings together the excitement of the world’s biggest sporting event with the best in local entertainment, offering a unique experience for soccer fans and neighbors alike.

As soccer fever sweeps the nation, Kearney proudly invites the community to a special public screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ match between the USA and Australia. One of seven Northland locations participating in a live viewing partnership with GONorthKC, the city is bringing the global game to its 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.”

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, while a live DJ keeps the atmosphere electric well into the afternoon and evening.

Attendees can look forward to an array of activities and amenities, including:

• Food Trucks & Concessions: Enjoy a variety of local flavors and game-day snacks.

• Selfie Stations: Capture memories with custom-designed photo ops for friends and family.

• Fan Zone: Participate in interactive activities and concessions for fans of all ages, including a drop-in soccer camp with international coaches from Challenger Sports from 11:30 am – 1 pm.

Admission to Cleats & Beats is free to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Gates at Jesse James Park will open early to allow fans to secure their spots before kickoff.

For more information and a full schedule of the day’s events, visit kearneymo.us or follow the City of Kearney on social media.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Fall Recreation Leagues Now Open

Fall sports leagues are now available through the Kearney Parks and Recreation Department. These programs emphasize safe, fun, and instructional recreation.

Three youth leagues are now available to the public.

Flag Football

Low-contact youth flag football is great for kids to familiarize themselves with the game of football in a fun and challenging way.

All teams play a minimum of 6 games. Games tentatively scheduled to start August 19.

Kearney Parks and Recreation will provide a jersey and a mouthpiece for each player. Parents are responsible for shoes, socks, shorts/pants, etc. Registration: $95.

Soccer

Recreation youth soccer is designed to get kids familiarized and involved in soccer through fun and engaging activities and games. This league is a great way for kids to develop motor and social skills all while having a blast.

Teams practice 1-2 times per week. Six games will be played on Saturdays beginning in September.

Kearney Parks and Recreation will provide a jersey. Parents/Guardians will need to provide shoes, shorts, socks, and shin guards. Registration: $95.

Volleyball

Youth volleyball is an excellent way for kids to have fun and make new friends while learning the game.

All teams will play a minimum of 6 games. Games tentatively scheduled to start mid-September.

Kearney Parks and Recreation will provide a jersey for each player. Parents are responsible for shoes, socks, shorts/pants, etc. Registration: $90.

Scholarships available for those in need. Complete confidentiality is maintained throughout the process. Contact Ryan Marcotte at 816-903-4730 for more information. For more information on equipment required, fees and deadlines, and online registration, go to KearneyParks.com.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.