Michael Anthony Adams

michael.adams@indystar.com

Mass Ave may not be as big as Chicago's Grant Park, but the Indy Eleven and Mayor Greg Ballard are teaming up to show the world that the Circle City is one of the nation's biggest soccer towns.

On Tuesday, fans are invited to occupy Mass Ave, between Park and College avenues, for a free World Cup Block Party. The game against Belgium kicks off at 4 p.m., but fans are encouraged to show up well in advance to get the party rolling and grab a spot in front of three big screens that will broadcast the ESPN feed.

"As we see with the tremendous success of Indy Eleven, our city is coming alive with soccer fans," Ballard said. "I want to thank Indy Eleven, Bright House Networks and Indianapolis Downtown Inc. for coming together to plan this great block party."

Chatham Tap owner Daniel Jones said the city came to him about the idea and got things moving quickly. His bartenders will be providing limited draft service outside on the avenue to block party patrons, but inside, he said, it'll be business as usual.

During the first three games of the World Cup, Chatham Tap security had to turn away people if they didn't show up two hours or more before kickoff.

"Now if we're full-up, they can just turn around and watch the game on the big screens outside," said Jones.

Various food trucks will be on site, and coolers will be permitted. There will also be a designated Indy Eleven family area complete with an inflatable "speed kick" game and autographs from team members.

"Indy Eleven is happy to bring together both new and longtime lovers of soccer to watch the U.S. men's national team continue its run in Brazil," said Eleven President/General Manager Peter Wilt. "Having a local connection to this team in Fort Wayne's DaMarcus Beasley gives the soccer community here in Indiana even more reason to follow and be proud of the accomplishments of this team."

Block Party gates will open at 2 p.m., but Mass Ave will be closed to traffic from Park Avenue to College Avenue beginning at 9:30 a.m. for event setup.