Oakland Recreation Hosts First-Ever Soccerpalooza Festival This July
Soccerpalooza will feature not only soccer games but a martial arts demonstration,
tug-of-war, lawn games, food, vendors, and more!
By David Pacquiao
Oakland Recreation will bring soccer, food, and family fun to Great Oak Park on Saturday, July 11, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The free community event, Soccerpalooza, will be held at Great Oak Park and is open to residents of all ages. Whether you're a soccer fan or just looking for a fun afternoon out, there's something for everyone.
This is the first event of its kind for Oakland, and the timing is no coincidence. Recreation Commissioner Bryant Larre, who was appointed this past year, saw the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the perfect moment to launch something new for the community. More importantly, the event will serve as a fundraiser for Oakland Recreation’s soccer program and upcoming Soccer Camp.
Indian Hills High School soccer players will volunteer to run activities on the day. Oakland Recreation will also have a booth on -site for anyone interested in signing up for fall recreational sports programs
Soccerpalooza goes beyond a typical sports event. Attendees can expect 3-on-3 soccer games, a large inflatable soccer target, a gaga pit, cornhole, and tug-of-war. According to Larre, the day is meant to be an inclusive festival for everyone. Local DJ, Liam “DJ Matuse” Matusevic, will keep the energy going throughout the afternoon. Ataekwondo demonstration, temporary tattoos, photo booth, and 50/50 raffle round out the fun. "If you're a baseball fan, football fan, whatever you are, just come down, have a good time," Larre said. "We want your families to come, bring your friends — just show up with an open heart and a good attitude."
For food, the Cubita Truck, Kona Ice, Scoops, and Ocean Road Bakery will all be on-site. More than a dozen local sponsors and vendors — including RE/MAX Select, Oakland ACE Hardware, Soccer Post, and Parisi Speed School — are expected to participate, with booths, giveaways, and tricky tray items.
To help organizers get a baseline attendee count, please RSVP by visiting the registration link. Questions or vendors interested in participating can contact Larre at bryantlarre@gmail.com.