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The FIFA World Cup 2026 – and the Summer of Soccer – has come to a close, but the tournament's legacy and impact that soccer has on communities around the United States is far from over. Ahead of the tournament, Soccer Forward Foundation and Common Goal partnered to support and highlight the incredible work of community organizations through Soccer Forward Fests. The Fests created opportunities for people to play, connect and celebrate, while keeping score of what matters most to them in ways that reflected the unique culture and character of each community. Nearly 600 Soccer Forward Fests took place across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., bringing soccer to nearly 85,000 participants. The community-driven events took the form of festivals, soccer clinics and neighborhood gatherings, all set up through local organizers. While the 11 World Cup Host Cities and surrounding areas held 253 Fests, more than half of these community events took place outside those markets from Knoxville, Tenn., to Boise, Idaho. Every Fest reflected its community, but together they showed how soccer can strengthen belonging, inspire active play, celebrate culture and create lasting community connections. Youth-focused Fests accounted for 79% of the events. Certain organizers prioritized girls’ participation, such as Confidence Cup and Girls Unite, while others like Wyoming Soccer encouraged new players to get their first touches with a soccer ball. The energy, connection and joy created through these Fests exemplified what the Soccer Forward Foundation and Common Goal are working to build in communities every day. During this exciting time in soccer history where major tournaments are running through American soil, these Fests are another step towards growing the game in this country and using soccer as a uniting force for good to bring people together. While the Soccer Forward Fests initiative is concluding, communities can continue bringing Fests to life using the Soccer Forward Fests Toolkit featuring planning guides, promotional templates and branding assets. The Soccer Forward Foundation will continue building on the momentum of Fests through year-round initiatives and resources that create opportunities for people to play, learn and thrive. To learn more, visit: https://www.ussoccer.com/soccer-forward/fests