By Ricky Richardson | Contributing Writer
Hawthorne, CA – There’s no denying that there has been excitement in the air for well over a month. Visual signage is in place throughout the city, from artwork on electrical/utility boxes to high-flying banners and other markings on the sidewalks and bus stops.
World Cup Fever is one of the most obvious symptoms of this excitement and exuberance. There is no quick cure. Authorities recommend that you drink a lot of fluids while you get caught up in the activities transpiring for the next thirty-plus days.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, FIFA World Cup Fever has captivated the global soccer community. Huge crowds are going to be attending games in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The soccer games are going to hold our rapt attention for the next thirty days or so. It is great to know that local artists have been busy showcasing some awesome murals that are sure to inspire everyone who is able to view the creative expressions on murals.
The City of Hawthorne unveiled a World Cup theme mural on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. The mural is on a wall off Imperial Highway, north on Firmona Avenue. The location is the south side of the 105 Freeway.
City officials were joined by special guests and an enthusiastic crowd for the unveiling ceremony. Guests could hear the excitement in the remarks by city officials and the artists. The wonderful mural was created by the father-son duo of Empire 76 LLC. The artists did a great job of captivating local landmarks located in the city, specifically, the Water Tower.
The FIFA World Cup mural is approximately 60 ft. by 7 ft. high and celebrates Hawthorne’s identity and global connection to FIFA activities, and also creates a destination for photo ops for both residents and visitors from the global soccer community. Photos of the mural, as well as pictures of selfies of residents and visitors, might be posted online on different social media platforms. I’m looking forward to seeing residents and the global soccer community in jerseys representing their favorite team.
FIFA World Cup Games will be here before you know it. The “City of Good Neighbors” will be hosting a Watch Party, Saturday, June 13, outside of City Hall, 4455 W. 126th Street. Now is a good time to grab your blankets, chairs, family, and don’t forget your neighbors, so that all can experience World Cup excitement at the biggest sporting event of the summer.
This free, family-friendly event will feature live games on a large screen broadcasting the highly anticipated matchups with Qatar vs. Switzerland at 12:00pm, followed by Brazil vs. Morocco at 3:00pm. Residents will be engaged in a festive and interactive atmosphere complete with food vendors, jumpers for children, futsal open play, and soccer clinics. Residents are encouraged to register in advance for the soccer clinics through the City’s online form: https://www.cityofhawthorne.org/home.
“There’s nothing quite like the energy of the World Cup, and we wanted to make sure residents can celebrate the excitement right here in Hawthorne,” said City Manager Vontray Norris in a statement. “We’re transforming the City Hall parking lot into the ultimate gathering spot for neighbors to cheer, play, and connect over a great day of soccer.”