On June 12, Santa Monica Place will transform into a full-day fan destination as it debuts its inaugural Santa Monica USA Kick Off Celebration, bringing live match screenings, music, interactive experiences, and festival-style programming to the heart of the city.
With the world’s attention increasingly turning toward Los Angeles ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026, the all-day event introduces something that feels larger than a traditional watch party. Santa Monica Place is creating a gathering space where soccer, entertainment, and community intersect—from morning coffee and remote work sessions to evening match viewing under the coastal sky.
The June event will take over Center Plaza and extend throughout the property, turning the shopping and dining destination into an active match-day headquarters with large viewing screens, immersive fan experiences, hospitality zones, and programming designed to keep people onsite throughout the day.
“This is an exciting moment for Santa Monica Place as we continue to evolve as a destination for large-scale, community-driven experiences,” said Rachel Chang, Vice President of Marketing for Prism Places. “With the global spotlight turning toward Los Angeles, this event reflects our ability to bring people together through culture, sport and shared moments while supporting our tenants and the broader Santa Monica community.”
Beginning at 11 a.m., the atmosphere shifts into full game-day mode with programming spread across the property. Guests can watch live coverage of the Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina match before the featured evening screening of USA vs. Paraguay at 6:00 p.m.
Throughout the day, DJs and live entertainment will keep energy moving across the center while branded experiences, giveaways, and photo opportunities add a festival atmosphere to the event. Interactive fan activities, face-painting stations, and immersive activations will also be available for guests moving between matches and dining destinations.
For visitors planning to settle in for the day, Santa Monica Place is adding free WiFi, workspace lounges, and networking areas that allow guests to work remotely, meet up with friends, or stay connected before kickoff.
VIP lounge spaces and premium viewing tables inside Center Plaza will provide elevated viewing experiences for guests looking for a more dedicated match-day setup, while restaurants and retailers across Santa Monica Place will participate with additional programming and activations expected to be announced closer to the event.
The Center Plaza viewing area will be limited to guests 21 and older, while the broader property remains open to all ages, allowing families and casual visitors to experience the day alongside dedicated football fans.
For more information and to RSVP, visit: Santa Monica USA Kick Off Event Page
Locations: 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica
Time: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Featured USA Match Broadcast: 6 p.m.
Photo credits: Photo courtesy of Santa Monica Place
