Gotham FC v Angel City FC: Celebrate Pride Month with a Special Match

On Saturday, June 8, 2024, NJ/NY Gotham FC (Gotham FC) will host a highly anticipated match against the West Coast's Los Angeles, California, Angel City FC at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ, starting at an unusual early kickoff time of 12:30 p.m.  This event isn’t just any match—it marks a vibrant celebration of Pride Month, emphasizing love, acceptance, and unity through soccer.

Celebrating Pride Month

June is recognized globally as Pride Month, commemorating the 1969 Stonewall riots in Manhattan, which were a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ liberation movement in the United States. The goal of Pride Month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally. In celebration, Gotham FC has organized an array of activities, ensuring that the game day is filled with festivity and solidarity.

Pre-Game Festivities

Festivities will kick off early with the Gotham FC Fan Fest presented by CarMax opening outside Gate B at 10 a.m. Fans will have the opportunity to meet club owner and sports icon Sue Bird from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Inner Plaza near the Crossbar Stage. Other highlights include live DJ sets, food trucks serving brunch-themed foods, and interactive games for all ages. We hope that Gotham FC management is reading this article so they can remember to be good neighbors and keep the sound level outside the Red Bull Arena as low as possible and not at an extreme level to not disturb the neighbors in what is now a residential community next to the Red Bull Arena.

Exclusive Gate Giveaways and Merchandise

The first 5,000 fans to arrive will receive exclusive Pride enamel lapel pins. Additionally, the newly unveiled 2024 Gotham FC Pride Merchandise Collection, which includes a variety of apparel designed with vibrant colors and inclusive messages, will be available at the match and online. This collection, modeled by Gotham FC fans and members, truly encapsulates the spirit of the community.

Special Guests and Performances

The pre-game ceremony will feature a rendition of the national anthem by Jan Sport, a singer, drag queen, and former contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race. Fans can also enjoy performances by comedians Freddie Shanel and Conor Jandain, adding a touch of humor to the celebrations.

Angel City FC: A Brief Overview

Angel City FC, based in Los Angeles, CA, plays its home games at the BMO Stadium, which is capable of hosting around 22,000 fans. Known for its vibrant fan support and significant community engagement, Angel City brings excitement and competition from the West Coast to this Eastern venue.

Logistics and Traffic Advisory

Due to the early start of the game, the Harrison Police Department will likely issue a Traffic and Parking Bulletin to accommodate the influx of fans. Attendees and residents are encouraged to plan their travel accordingly.  Saturday early morning games are rough for Harrison residents as it disrupts their Saturday morning route.

Gotham FC's game against Angel City is more than just a match; it is a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community spirit, set against the backdrop of competitive soccer. Fans are encouraged to partake in the celebrations, support their teams, and most importantly, embrace the values that Pride Month stands for.

Tickets for the game can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

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