Plaza programming underway: May attendance strong, World Cup watch parties hinge on FIFA licensing

EverG Plaza staff updated the committee May 21 on summer programming and reported a strong May with more than 10,000 visitors for Saturday events so far. Regular offerings include weekly "Invisa Eat and Beats" Thursdays, a Wednesday live series, and Friday evening film nights. Plaza staff listed upcoming activations including a dog-friendly night, a major June event described as a "fight night," and other concerts.

Plaza staff said planned World Cup watch parties require approval and licensing from FIFA; if FIFA grants the rights the events would be free to the public and the plaza could not generate revenue from the broadcasts. The staff representative said they were seeking FIFA approval before mid-June so watch parties could proceed when games begin.

Separately, a committee member said the city signed a contract with a general contractor for the ice rink and that construction activity on the north end of the plaza will begin soon; a groundbreaking is being scheduled. The committee also heard a request to improve accessible parking and logistics for attendees with mobility limitations attending downtown events.

No decisions on event licensing or TGT allocations were finalized at the meeting; staff will continue coordinating with license holders, grantees and the governing body.