Lee’s Summit lights up the pitch on Draw Day — December 5 celebration at Green Street

Lee’s Summit is lighting up downtown this December as the community comes together to celebrate the global excitement of the 2026 world soccer tournament. LSGoal26, a local nonprofit coalition dedicated to showcasing Lee’s Summit during the tournament year, will host “Lee’s Summit Lights Up the Pitch” on Thursday, December 5, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Green Street in Downtown Lee’s Summit.

Presented by Sporting Lee’s Summit, the free, family-friendly event will blend the energy of international soccer with the warmth of Lee’s Summit’s holiday traditions.

“Draw Day is when the world learns which nations will play in which cities for 2026,” said LSGoal26 Chair, Laura Maxwell. “By the evening, we’ll already know where the matchups are set — and that’s when Lee’s Summit gets to celebrate together, right here in the heart of our community.”


The community celebration will include:

• Mini soccer challenges for kids and families (penalty kicks, dribble relays, and juggling fun)
• Interactive “Prediction Wall” and “Where Will You Be in 2026?” stations for community input and photos
  
  
  
• Food trucks and warm beverages including cocoa and cider for a cozy December night; Food vendors include: Jazzy B’s, Chef Aristo’s, LeVante, Whistlestop, Grains & Taps, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Embrace the Grape, and Fringe.

 

• Music and live entertainment featuring a DJ with global flair
  
  
  
• Cultural displays and flag décor representing nations from around the world
  
  
  
• Holiday fun near the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, including Santa photos and festive lights

The evening will also highlight Green Street as Lee’s Summit’s newest community gathering space and future home to upcoming Futbol Fridays — a summer series planned for 2026 to welcome fans, families, and visitors during the global tournament.

“Our goal is to show the world what makes Lee’s Summit special,” Matt Baird, LS Chamber President said. "This event is a first step toward building that excitement, connecting our neighbors, and preparing to host the region in 2026.”

The celebration is organized by LSGoal26, a nonprofit coalition including the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street, Inc., the City of Lee’s Summit, and dedicated community volunteers.

The event is free and open to the public. In case of inclement weather, this event will be held entirely indoors at Green Street.