Hoover sets Guinness World Record title during 4th on the First celebration

The city of Hoover set a Guinness World Records title Wednesday night for the “most people opening drink cans simultaneously” during its 4th on the First celebration at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex.

Nearly 7,000 residents and visitors attended the event, which included traditions, family-friendly entertainment, a FIFA World Cup watch party and a fireworks finale.

During halftime of the U.S. Men’s National Team’s Round of 32 match, 2,842 participants opened drink cans simultaneously, surpassing the previous record of 2,747.

“The current record to beat was 2,747,” Guinness World Records adjudicator Tina Shi said. “And today, with all of your efforts, your final result is 2,842.”

The evening opened with a ceremony featuring more than 150 volunteers carrying a giant American flag across the stadium floor. Hoover Police Officer Steven Easterling performed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and Miss Hoover 2026 Ali Mims and Haley Houston performed “God Bless America.”

The celebration continued with live entertainment, family activities and a community watch party as fans cheered on Hoover native Chris Richards, who played all 90 minutes in the United States’ 2-0 shutout victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The win helped advance the U.S. Men’s National Team to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

A passing thunderstorm temporarily moved attendees from the stadium seating into the concourse, where they continued watching the match together. Thousands remained for the Guinness World Records title attempt and the rest of the evening’s festivities.

“Our goal was to create something truly special for our community, and I believe we accomplished that,” Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis said. “Despite the weather, people stayed, came together and made history. From the patriotic opening ceremony and the Team USA watch party to setting a Guinness World Records title and ending the night with an incredible fireworks show, it was a wonderful evening that showcased the pride, spirit and sense of community that make Hoover such a special place.”

Additional attractions included performances by the Xpogo Stunt Team, Bucket Ruckus and ZOOperstars!, a Chinook helicopter display, a 10-foot apple pie served with ice cream and the City Council Hot Dog Eating Contest. Councilwoman Ashley Lovell won the contest after eating three hot dogs.

The evening concluded with Hoover’s extended fireworks show.

The city of Hoover thanked Coca-Cola United and Birmingham Legion FC for their partnership in helping make the event a success.