PRESS RELEASE: Atlantic City Arts Foundation Welcomes the World to Kick it in The Loop for a World Cup Semifinal Watch Party
Atlantic City Arts Foundation Welcomes the World to Kick it in The Loop for a World Cup Semifinal Watch Party
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ, July 7, 2026 — The Atlantic City Arts Foundation (ACAF) is bringing World Cup energy to Atlantic City’s Orange Loop neighborhood on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. “Kick it in The Loop”, a free full-day celebration of global sports and local creativity, invites residents and visitors to experience the excitement of the World Cup Semifinal match alongside live art activations and international music.
"Kick it in The Loop welcomes the world to kick it in our corner of Atlantic City for an unforgettable experience," says Michael Atkins, Executive Director of the Atlantic City Arts Foundation. "We’ve caught World Cup Fever, and it’s time to think global and party local. The 2026 World Cup is a once in a generation opportunity as a host nation to not only celebrate an international sport, but recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures represented within the soccer world as well as right here on every block of Atlantic City. We’re merging the high-energy spirit of the World Cup with the incredible talent of our local arts community to create celebration for everyone."
The day’s festivities kick off at 3:00 p.m. in The Garden at Cardinal, where the World Cup Semifinal match will be broadcast live on the big screen. While cheering on the match, attendees can screen-print a limited-edition tote bag with Side Pony Printshop, or score a one-of-a-kind poster. Cardinal will have hydration breaks covered with match-day food and beverage specials, including pizza, wings, and canned cocktails to keep the spirits high, no matter the outcome of the match.
Take it into extra time at 6:00 p.m. where ACAF will lead a guided Orange Loop Mural Walking Tour, providing a deep dive into several of the 100+ murals that have transformed the city into a public art destination. Of the 105 murals across Atlantic City commissioned by the Atlantic City Arts Foundation over 20 are found in the Orange Loop, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the vibrant visual arts that make the Orange Loop a must-see for any and all art enthusiasts.
Advance to the final round for a special international music Vinyl Night at Anchor Rock Club, starting at 7:00 p.m.. While Anchor Rock Club hosts Vinyl Night every Wednesday, this World Cup edition features DJ Mario Cotto on the decks. The evening will highlight global dancefloor classics, deep cuts, and worldwide grooves—from Colombian cumbia, French yé-yé, to anthemic British pop, and more.
Event Schedule for Wednesday, July 15:
3:00 p.m.: World Cup Semifinal Watch Party & Live Screen-printing (The Garden at Cardinal, 201 S. New York Ave)
6:00 p.m.: Orange Loop Mural Walking Tour (Roundtrip from Cardinal)
7:00 p.m.: Late: World Music Vinyl Night with DJ Mario Cotto (Anchor Rock Club, 247 S. New York Ave, 21+)
Kick it in The Loop is free and open to all ages, with the exception of the 21+ Vinyl Night at Anchor Rock Club. This event is proudly sponsored by North to Shore Welcomes the World.
For more information, visit atlanticcityartsfoundation.org/kickit.
About the Atlantic City Arts Foundation
The Atlantic City Arts Foundation’s diverse programs and partnerships activate community pride and civic self-esteem through interaction with public art, including the city’s largest mural arts program. The Atlantic City Arts Foundation is dedicated to increasing public art access and fostering community art appreciation in Atlantic City, NJ. Programs include 48 Blocks Atlantic City, Chalk About AC and ARTeriors. The Atlantic City Arts Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Learn more at www.atlanticcityartsfoundation.org/.
Media Contact
Michael Atkins
michael@atlanticcityartsfoundation.org
(609) 217-5569