Long Beach Revives Its Signature Car-Free Celebration
The city’s annual Beach Streets festival returns on July 19, turning downtown streets into a pedestrian‑only playground for cyclists, walkers and families. This year the event aligns with the FIFA World Cup final, adding a soccer‑themed layer of excitement.
Mayor Rex Richardson will headline a welcome ceremony at the Kickin’ It Hub in Bixby Park, where a Kids’ Zone will offer soccer‑themed inflatables, free face painting, food trucks, a beer garden and DJ sets.
Hubs Across the City
The North Pine Hub and the East Village Hub will showcase performances curated by the Downtown Long Beach Alliance, while the Fourth Street Hub will host a free big‑screen viewing of the tournament final at the Art Theatre of Long Beach, accompanied by live music and kid‑friendly activities.
Local businesses are invited to set up shop along the route, with a dedicated Downtown Entertainment Zone (EZ) Sip area allowing patrons to purchase drinks from participating merchants and enjoy them in a designated sip zone.
Metro’s transit team encourages riders to use public transportation, promising exclusive surprises and special rider activities at the 1st Street A Line Station.
Businesses interested in joining the festivities can submit an online participation form by Friday, July 10, to secure a spot on the longest Beach Streets route in the event’s history.
Originating in 2015, Beach Streets has explored various neighborhoods, and this year’s edition expands its footprint while integrating the city’s Soccer in the LBC series of free soccer‑themed events throughout the World Cup.
The City’s fútbol programming also includes Matches in the Park, a lineup of seven watch parties during the tournament’s knockout stage, further cementing Long Beach’s role in the global soccer celebration.