Welcome to Chapel Hill, Manchester City and Celtic FC Fans!

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European Football Showdown at Kenan Stadium

Join us in Chapel Hill on July 23, 2024, for a spectacular showcase of soccer skills featuring Manchester City and Celtic FC! Dive into the excitement as these European giants clash in one of America's greatest college towns. 

A warm welcome from Chapel Hill

"We are thrilled to welcome international soccer fans back to Chapel Hill this summer for this fantastic event," expresses Bubba Cunningham, Director of Athletics at UNC. "The atmosphere for last year's game was outstanding, and we can't wait to share our beautiful campus and Carolina community with even more visitors from around the world."

Plan your trip

Tickets and more information

Secure your spot at this not-to-be-missed event by visiting www.FCSeries.com. Stay updated with the latest news at Go Heels

Parking information 

Parking on UNC-Chapel Hill Campus 

Transportation options: click/tap for complete details ➡️  FREE Trolley service

Discover downtown Chapel Hill and Carrboro via a free Hop on/Hop off Trolley Service available July 22, 23 & 24 from 1 PM - 9 PM. Air conditioned!

Things to do while you're here

While in Chapel Hill for the Manchester City vs Celtic Glasgow match, there's plenty to explore:

1. UNC Campus: Take a stroll around the beautiful University of North Carolina campus, known for its picturesque architecture and vibrant student life.
2. Franklin Street: Experience the local vibe on Franklin Street, lined with eclectic shops, restaurants, and bars.
3. Carolina Basketball Museum: Explore UNC's basketball legacy featuring exhibits on iconic players, championships, and historic moments in Tar Heels history
4. North Carolina Botanical Garden: Enjoy the tranquility of nature at the North Carolina Botanical Garden, showcasing a variety of native plant species.
5. Ackland Art Museum: A portion of the Museum's permanent collection of over 20,000 works of art is always on view. A walk through can be an introduction to ancient Greek vases, Eugene Delacroix and Andy Warhol - all in one day.
6. Local Eateries: Indulge in at some of our renowned local eateries like Al’s Burger Shack or Top of the Hill.
7. Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of outdoor activities such as hiking at nearby trails or check out the mural walking tours. Self-Guided Map.

Relive the thrill of last summer

Still reminiscing about last year's electrifying Chelsea v Wrexham match? Prepare for another high-energy game as we host these legendary teams at Kenan Stadium. The atmosphere promises to be just as electrifying, with a high demand for tickets anticipated. Get ready for a full week of celebrations in Chapel Hill and Carrboro. From local festivities to game-day excitement, July 2024 is set to be a memorable summer of soccer. Experience the thrill, passion, and community spirit that only soccer can bring. We look forward to seeing you there!

Last July, Unified Events and the FC Series hosted Chelsea's 5-0 victory over Wrexham in front of a sold-out crowd of 50,596. Proceeds from this summer's match will benefit UNC Children's Hospital. In April Moonchester, the loveable mascot from Manchester City, visited with patients at the Children's Hospital in Chapel Hill. The afternoon was a bright light and generated many smiles and curious looks. 

Last year, $150,000 was donated to the hospital.  

"This match is a huge economic boon and source of pride for the greater Chapel Hill area, and we are thrilled to host these two teams in our North Carolina communities. The college atmosphere is an ideal backdrop for all guests and our community leaders have been busy researching the teams' history, mascots and preparing to offer a hearty welcome this July," said Laurie Paolicelli, Executive Director of the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau. 

Manchester City: A Legacy of Passion

Founded in 1880, Manchester City has captured hearts worldwide, including a strong following in the U.S. Crowned the most-watched English team on American television in 2023, their fan base continues to grow. Don't miss the fun antics of Moonchester and his partner Moonbeam, the team's spirited alien mascots, as they fire up the crowd.

Fun Facts: 

• Fans are called Cityzens
• Motto is: Pride in Battle
• The 'Poznan' is a celebration by football fans during matches when they turn their back on the players, put their arm around each other's shoulders and jump on the spot in unison. The sporting celebration usually occurs after a goal, normally of some importance, is scored and the match has essentially been settled.
   

Celtic FC: Scottish Pride and Glory

Hailing from Glasgow, Celtic FC has a storied history with fifty-three Scottish league championships to their name. Known for their iconic green-and-white striped uniforms, Celtic also brings their beloved mascots, Hoopy and Hailey, to charm fans of all ages. Experience the joy and community spirit they bring to every match.

Fun Facts:

• Fans call themselves “The Bhoys”
• The Celtic Cross: The Celtic cross, featuring a distinctive design with a ring surrounding the intersection of the crossbars, is a symbol often associated with the club and its Irish heritage.
• The Celtic Way: Before every home game, Celtic fans gather on The Celtic Way, a walkway leading up to Celtic Park, where they sing, chant, and create an electrifying atmosphere to support their team.
• You'll Never Walk Alone: Although famously associated with Liverpool FC, the anthem "You'll Never Walk Alone" is also sung with great passion by Celtic fans before matches. It serves as a unifying and uplifting song for supporters.

About Chapel Hill:

Chapel HIll was named for the Church of England New Hope Chapel which once stood atop the hill's crossroads. Chapel Hill is a multicultural university town that is home to UNC-Chapel Hill and a resident population of 67,000. Hailed as “America’s Foodiest Small Town” by Bon Appetit Magazine, Chapel Hill is rapidly becoming a hot spot for pop American cuisine. It’s a trend-setting playground full of sights, sounds and tastes that make it the kind of place that authors, musicians, and artists call home. It is nicknamed The Southern Part of Heaven.