REPORT TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING COMMITTEE (AD HOC)
SUBJECT
Title
Discussion and Direction on the Citywide 2026 Economic Development & Community Engagement Plan and on the Citywide Theme for 2026 Major Events Community Engagement Campaign.
Report
BACKGROUND
At the June 2, 2025 Economic Development and Marketing Committee Ad Hoc (EDMC) meeting, Committee members and stakeholders had a discussion on potential community engagement and economic development activities related to the 2026 events of SuperBowl and FIFA World Cup at Levi's Stadium.
The following campaign theme options were presented for consideration.
* Santa Clara: Where the World Kicks off
* Santa Clara: Get Your Kicks in 2026
* Santa Clara 2026 The World Plays Here
Community Engagement Opportunities
Below was presented to the Committee as a tentative timeline for potential opportunities and partnerships the City is including in the plan for the consideration by the Committee. These potential events would provide inclusive, low-cost programming which is open to the public.
Tentative Dates
Event
Potential Partner(s)
June 2025
FIFA Plaque Unveiling
Bay Area Host Committee
September 2025
Kickoff Campaign at Art & Wine Festival
Parks & Recreation
October 2025
Parade of Champions - Sports Zone component of the Parade Festival
Santa Clara Parade of Champions
December 2025
Holiday Tree Lighting
City Departments
January 2026
Community Chalk Art Contest
City Manager's Office
February / March 2026
Sports Themed Exhibit
Triton Museum
April 2026
Firehouse Run
Santa Clara Firefighters Foundation
May - July 2026
Night Market Launch (series of 4 events)
Food trucks, artists, entertainment
June/July 2026
Watch Parties for FIFA games not hosted in Santa Clara
TBD
Santa Clara City Library Events
Library
Concert for Community
TBD
Free Youth Sports and Stem Camp/Clinic Programs
TBD
Banners & Community Wayfinding
City Manager's Office
Economic Development Opportunities
Also presented was the goal ...
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