SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - The world’s biggest soccer event is here, as teams from 48 countries are competing for a chance to call themselves soccer champions of the world. Starting on Saturday, the MassMutual Center is bringing some of that fast-paced action to the heart of downtown Springfield — with plenty of amenities for all ages.

“There’s going to be some bars. There’s going to be inflatables. There’s going to be things for kids. And there’s going to be a giant LED screen playing the games,” said General Manager at the MassMutual Center Sean Dolan.

It’s happening at The Landing, an almost 13,000 square foot outdoor space right next to the Mass Mutual Center. While there will be tables in the area, Dolan is recommending you bring your own blankets and lawn chairs because of the expected crowd.

“Our hope is that we have a few hundred people for watch party and that it grows as we go,” Dolan said, “And then, you know, hopefully we get up to the point where we’re at, you know, a thousand people out here.”

Saturday’s action kicks off at 3 p.m. when Qatar takes on Switzerland in Santa Clara, California. Then, Brazil goes head-to-head with Morocco at 6 p.m. down at New York New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey. It’s a time that’s both exciting for fans, and the people making it happen.

“The ultimate goal is to offer a place for people to come out here, have a good time with their community, enjoy it, and just create a vibe that’s welcoming, inclusive, and, you know, creates a space for people to have a good time,” as Dolan puts it, you won’t want to miss it, “it’s a can’t-miss event. It’s an opportunity to celebrate what is an incredible tradition and an incredible game, really, in downtown Springfield with your community.”

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