When Orlando City Soccer entered Major League Soccer in 2015, they were billed immediately as one of the league's crown jewel franchises. Now, four years later, they are finally getting one of the premier events in American soccer, with 26 MLS all-stars taking the pitch at Exploria Stadium against Atletico de Madrid on Jully 31.
The MLS All-Star Game is just the highlight of a full week of fun activities taking place in The City Beautiful. There are a variety of different events, many even free to attend, that will delight soccer fans throughout Central Florida.
MLS Works Day of Service - July 27, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
While there will be plenty of competitive fun on the pitch during All-Star week, the MLS is starting things off by giving back to the Orlando area. MLS Works, their social responsibility platform, is hosting a Day of Service alongside Wells Fargo, Feeding Children Everywhere and Orlando City.
Hundreds of fans, volunteers, former MLS greats and other dignitaries will gather at Digital HQ located at Ace Cafe to pack 100,000 healthy meals for families in need. If you want to take part, registration for a variety of volunteer shifts are still available.
All-Star Concert and Orlando City Viewing Party - July 27, 7 p.m.
The MLS All-Star Concert will be headlined this year by Latin music star Prince Royce, while Grammy-nominated DJ , A-Trak, will also perform. The event takes place at Wall Street Plaza and will be preceded by a viewing party for Orlando City as they take on the New England Revolution.
The concert and watch party are free to attend, but tickets are required and registration is available online. People must be at least 21 years of age to attend and doors open at 6 p.m.
eMLS All-Star Challenge - July 28, 6-10 p.m.
Video game enthusiasts will love the eMLS All-Star Challenge at the league's digital HQ. Professional gamers, MLS players, and amateur enthusiasts will compete against each other in the second annual two on two event.
MLS Works + Target All-Star Community Day - July 29, 1-4 p.m.
The league will continue their philanthropic efforts by unveiling two mini soccer pitches and planting an educational garden at Neptune Middle School in Kissimmee. There All-Star Community Day will also include All-Star-themed interactive activities and local youth soccer clinics run by Orlando City-affiliated coaches.
Food, refreshments, merchandise and giveaways will be available as part of the festivities. Youth may still register for the clinic.
Men in Blazers LIVE MLS All-Star Extravaganza - July 29, 8 p.m.
One of America's most popular soccer shows is convening on Orlando for a night of insight into the country's past and present with the sport. Hosts Roger Bennett and Michael Davies will be at Digital HQ, providing their usual banter and interviewing top-notch guests.
Unfortunately, those still looking for tickets are out of luck as this event quickly sold out.
Open Training Sessions - July 30, 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.
If you are not going to the actual All-Star Game, but still want to get an up-close and personal look at some of best players in soccer, the open training sessions at Exploria Stadium provide a perfect opportunity Atletico de Madrid will take the pitch the day before the match at 8 a.m., with the MLS All-Star following at 10 a.m.
MLS Homegrown Game and All-Star Skills Challenge - July 30, 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Disney's Wide World of Sports complex plays host to two of the week's most anticipated events: the MLS Homegrown Game and the All-Star Skills Challenge. First, some of the top young players in American soccer will compete alongside players from the Mexican and Canadian youth national teams in the Homegrown Game.
Then, global icons like Wayne Rooney, Carlos Vela and Orlando City's own Nani headline the all-new Skills Challenge. Tickets that include entry to both events are available for $10.
Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Match - July 31, 10 a.m.
On All-Star Wednesday, athletes with intellectual disabilities will join their Unified Partners for a fun, 11 on 11, East vs. West style match-up at the Wide World of Sports. The Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Match is held to promote social inclusion.
Tickets must be registered for in advance, but the match is free to attend.
Soccer Celebration - July 31, 3:30-7:30 p.m.
Leading up to the big game, Tide is presenting a free pregame festival outside the stadium that is accessible to fans of all ages. There will be interactive fan zones, live music, games, autographs and giveaways.
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Feature Image Provided By Orlando City Soccer
