The Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce (BCLCC) has announced the launch of the 222 Corridor Summer Soccer Series, a regional initiative aimed at celebrating culture, promoting tourism, supporting small businesses, and building excitement ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The initiative was officially unveiled Thursday during a press conference at the Reading office of State Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz.
According to the chamber, the Summer Soccer Series will bring together communities throughout Reading, Lancaster and Allentown through soccer-themed events, cultural celebrations and economic development opportunities designed to capitalize on the global attention surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
During the event, Cepeda-Freytiz announced $250,000 in funding to support the initiative, calling FIFA 2026 “a Pennsylvania moment” and emphasizing the importance of ensuring communities beyond Philadelphia benefit from the tournament’s economic impact.
The Summer Soccer Series will feature regional watch parties, cultural festivals, family-friendly entertainment, small business and vendor marketplaces, tourism promotions and community networking opportunities. Organizers said the series is expected to bring thousands of residents and visitors together while showcasing the region’s cultural diversity and local businesses.
“This initiative represents exactly what the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce was created to do—bring people together, create opportunities for small businesses, celebrate our culture, and position our communities for economic growth,” said Isamac Torres Figueroa, board chair of the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce.
Officials from Reading, Lancaster and Allentown participated in the announcement, highlighting the collaboration between the three cities along the Route 222 corridor.
Jack Rumbaugh, managing director for the City of Reading, said Reading is expected to play a significant role in the regional effort and noted that additional announcements regarding fan zone activities, entertainment and vendors are expected in the coming months.
Among the first events announced is a Summer of Soccer watch party scheduled for July 2 at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in Reading. Additional activities in Lancaster and Allentown are expected to begin June 12.
The Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce said additional event details, schedules and sponsorship opportunities will be announced throughout the summer.
