CAMDEN - Down on the waterfront, Governor Mikie Sherrill hit a taco stand and a cheesesteak stand on her way to the main stage, leading a group of Camden residents and elected officials just as they pulled the plug on the big screen broadcasting Senegal versus Iraq to make way for her public remarks.

A stone's throw from Philadelphia, glimmering on the other side of the river, the New Jersey Governor promptly threw down the gauntlet, declaring Camden cheesesteaks superior to those fried up in the City of Brotherly Love.

She wanted the world to know that as it crash lands in her home state for the World Cup.  "The secret is the best cheesesteaks are not across the river - they're right here at Donkey's," said Sherrill. "I was just there. It was fantastic."

Joined by her old friend, U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-1), Mayor Victor Carstarphen, Camden County Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli and numerous elected officials, Sherrill celebrated the World Cup with South Jersey this afternoon as the city prepares for a night crowd of 4,000 at its waterfront soccer festival.

Full details below in a Camden press release in advance of the event: 

The Board of Commissioners will join Governor Mikie Sherrill, Congressman Donald Norcross, local and state officials, and thousands of soccer fans at SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront to kick off the Norway vs. France and Senegal vs. Iraq matches at 3 p.m.

“It is truly an honor to have Governor Sherrill join us at SoccerFest26. This event wouldn’t be possible without the Governor advocating for South Jersey to receive grant funding from Choose New Jersey,” said Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. “Our SoccerFest26 pregame party is the best way to get ready for the Friday afternoon games, and we encourage everyone to join us.”

Beginning at 1:30 p.m. ahead of the 3 p.m. matches there will be $10 vouchers for the food and merchandise vendors and spectators will have the opportunity to win a special World Cup package.

From June 25-27, the Camden Waterfront will transform into South Jersey's ultimate World Cup watch party as Visit South Jersey presents SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront, a free three-day festival packed with soccer, food, music, family fun, giveaways, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you're a die-hard soccer fan, a family looking for a fun summer outing, or simply someone who loves great food and live entertainment, SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront offers something for everyone.

Residents and visitors can watch World Cup matches on giant screens overlooking the waterfront, sample flavors from around the world at international food trucks, enjoy wine and beer tastings featuring some of South Jersey's most celebrated and award-winning wineries and breweries, shop local vendors, and experience live entertainment from South Jersey-based musicians and artists throughout the weekend.

Kids can burn off energy in inflatable play areas while fans of all ages compete in games, challenges, and giveaways. Visitors will also have opportunities to score exclusive World Cup-themed scarves and other swag throughout the festival.

The festival will feature broadcasts of World Cup matches from around the globe, creating an electric atmosphere as fans gather to cheer on their favorite teams while enjoying some of the best food, beverages, and entertainment South Jersey has to offer.

Beyond the matches, SoccerFest26 at the Camden Waterfront will showcase the region's vibrant arts and music scene with live performances throughout the weekend. South Jersey-based band CraVed will kick off the festivities on Thursday, followed by trumpeter, composer and arranger Matt Cappy and Tonks on Friday and Tara Hendricks and Cintron on Saturday.

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Also present onstage with Governor Sherrill, U.S. Rep. Norcross, Mayor Carstarphen and Commissioner Director Cappelli:

Commissioner Deputy Director Ed McDonnell

Commissioner Jeffrey Nash

Commissioner Al Dyer

                        Commissioner Jennifer Cooley Fleisher

State Senator Nilsa Cruz Perez

Assemblyman Bill Moen

Assemblyman Bill Spearman

Assemblywoman Melinda Kane

Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald

Michael Snyder, Director of Operations, Visit South Jersey

Soccer fans from throughout South Jersey