“Soccer Fest”, 15 days of free, family-friendly outdoor community celebrations during the 2026 World Cup will take place at The Commons at Castleberry Hill, a new gathering place developed by Russell New Urban Development, the real estate development arm of H. J. Russell & Company.
It’s taking place in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood that has a rich history in art and culture. It’s located just east of Northside Drive at 443 Nelson Street SW. in between Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) and adjacent to Atlantucky Brewery at 170 Northside Drive and Highland Bakery Kitchen & Bar at 131 Walker Street.
In the newly developed Commons space, “Soccer Fest”, will mainly take place from 2-8 p.m. for 15 days between Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, July 19. It will feature a public game viewing area with a large LED screen to watch approved 2026 World Cup games during event times, DJs, food trucks, goods for purchase from local small businesses, and other family-friendly activities. “Soccer Fest” also features opportunities for up to150 local entrepreneurs and 75 food truck operators to participate in the economic benefit created by the 2026 World Cup coming to Atlanta and other North American cities.
Castleberry Hill businesses and stakeholder businesses at RICE were invited to participate in showcasing and selling their products. The mix of products and services will be generous over the 15 day event schedule. All of this is in keeping with Mayor Andre Dickens’ mission to make certain the 2026 World Cup happens with Atlanta and not to Atlanta. “The World Cup presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to welcome the world to Atlanta,” said Delilah Wynn-Brown, Vice President of Russell New Urban Development.
“Soccer Fest is about more than watching the games. It’s about creating a place where culture, community and entrepreneurship come together while showcasing the energy and diversity of Castleberry Hill.” “Soccer Fest” will take place primarily between 2:00 and 8:00 p.m. on June 13, 15, 21, 27, 28 and July 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 15, 18, and 19, but for early games, 12:00 noon – 8:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. when there are night games. Atlanta, Castleberry Hill District neighbors and visitors from across the country and world are invited to enjoy all 15 dates and the mix of vendors and activities. Like the games, each day will offer a different experience. Free to the public,
“Soccer Fest” at The Commons at Castleberry Hill, is designed to bring the community together in a neighborhood with nearly 75 years of H. J. Russell & Company history and in what has been designated as Atlanta’s historic, landmarked arts district. “We’re introducing this space as a hub for connection during the 2026 World Cup and beyond,” said Zane Major, Director of Asset Management, H. J. Russell & Company, and grandson of the late company founder, Herman J. Russell, Sr.
“By being just blocks away from the Atlanta University Center, the Castleberry Hill arts and eateries district and all the new development happening on the westside and in south downtown, it is a prime location to bring culture and community together for exciting and meaningful events now and in the future.”
While some seating is available, neighborhood attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets (no umbrellas that can obscure viewing). First Aid will be on site as well as security. Service pets only. The schedule will take place rain or shine unless there is dangerous weather.
Taking MARTA, rideshare, walking or using Pedi-cabs (bi-cycle powered coaches for hire) from the area around the Mercedes-Benz Stadium to The Commons at Castleberry Hill is encouraged. Limited parking is available in lots located close by; however, parking is limited in the Castleberry Hill District.
For the “Soccer Fest” schedule, and to learn more about what’s happening at The Commons at Castleberry Hill, visit www.castleberrycommons.com
Founded in 1952, H. J. Russell & Company is one of the largest African-American-owned program and construction management firms in the United State. A multi-faceted organization providing integrated solutions and an exceptional customer experience, Russell has developed, designed/built, renovated, and managed some of the nation’s most complex and high-profile projects involving multiple stakeholders and requiring exceptional diplomacy and skill.
Visit www.hjrussell.com to learn more about the firm.
