Kicking Off Summer 2024: Bethlehem's SoccerFest and Copa America Celebrations

Experience the Thrill of Soccer and the Spirit of Community at Bethlehem's Premier Summer Event.

Announcement of SoccerFest 2024

As the warm winds of June usher in the festive season, the ArtsQuest campus is abuzz with the announcement of SoccerFest 2024. This year's edition, bolstered by the support of Wind Creek Bethlehem, is poised to offer an unforgettable experience with the Copa America Watch Parties taking center stage on the Air Products Town Square. The event is a testament to the organization's commitment to nurturing a vibrant community through the universal language of soccer.

With the collaborative efforts of Lehigh Valley United, the stage is set for a series of youth-focused activities designed to ignite passion and enhance skills on the soccer field. The support of Discover Lehigh Valley and Kwik Goal as the official equipment vendor underscores the community's dedication to the sport's growth and the development of its young athletes.

Youth Soccer Clinics and Tournaments

The excitement builds as the PNC Plaza prepares to host the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association-sanctioned 3v3 tournament. Young soccer enthusiasts are invited to showcase their talents and team spirit in a competitive yet fun environment. With categories catering to various age groups, the tournament is a platform for budding soccer stars to shine.

Registration for the tournament is streamlined through the SteelStacks website, ensuring a seamless process for all participants. The deadline for registration is set, and teams are encouraged to secure their spot for a chance to compete in this prestigious event.

Special Olympics Kids Soccer Clinic

The Special Olympics Kids Soccer Clinic emerges as a highlight of the festival, offering an inclusive space for children with intellectual disabilities to engage in the sport. This clinic, a collaboration with the Special Olympics, is more than just a training session; it's a celebration of the human spirit, where kids are empowered to learn and enjoy soccer in a supportive environment.

Guided by the dedicated volunteers from Team Lehigh and Team Bethlehem Special Olympics, participants will navigate through a series of stations designed to teach the fundamentals of soccer while having a blast.

DOMINATE the 18 Youth Goalkeeping Clinic

For those aspiring to guard the net, the DOMINATE the 18 Youth Goalkeeping Clinic offers a specialized training program. Under the guidance of Coach Bob Pipech and his team, young goalkeepers will delve into the essentials of their role. The clinic is structured to cater to a range of experience levels, from newcomers to seasoned young goalkeepers.

Interactive games and at-home drills are incorporated to reinforce learning and skill development, ensuring that each participant leaves with a stronger foundation and a newfound confidence in their goalkeeping abilities.

Youth Soccer Skills Clinic

The Youth Soccer Skills Clinic is a dynamic session where children can refine their dribbling, shooting, and passing skills. Coaches from esteemed institutions such as Lehigh University, Moravian Academy, and Perfect Touch Soccer will lead the way, imparting their knowledge through engaging drills and games.

Parents are invited to partake in the excitement, capturing memories as their children navigate through the stations, each designed to challenge and improve different aspects of their soccer prowess.

Copa América Watch Parties and Festivities

The fervor of Copa América is set to envelop Bethlehem as the US Men's National Team's matches are broadcasted on a grand scale. The Levitt Pavilion lawn transforms into a festive hub with jumbo screens, food trucks, and a plethora of soccer activities to engage fans of all ages.

Adding to the cultural tapestry, the ¡Sabor! Latin Music Festival will serenade attendees with performances that resonate with the city's vibrant Hispanic heritage, further enriching the SoccerFest experience.

Cultural Impact and ArtsQuest’s Mission

ArtsQuest's Chief Operating Officer, Curt Mosel, reflects on the significant growth of Bethlehem's Hispanic community and the integral role soccer plays within it. SoccerFest 2024 is not just an event; it's a reflection of ArtsQuest's dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride through its diverse programming.

The organization's mission to provide access to artistic and cultural experiences is evident in its extensive reach, impacting over 1.9 million people annually. With a substantial economic contribution to the region, ArtsQuest continues to be a beacon of cultural enrichment and community development.