There will be FIFA World Cup soccer parties in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.
The provincial government is funding the community get-togethers to the tune of $1.7 million for 32 communities, and the local cities are getting a share.
Maple Ridge received $80,000 to host the “Game On: Soccer Viewing Parties” in Memorial Peace Park, featuring Team Canada’s games and the playoff round. Pitt Meadows also received $10,000 for a community event.
The World Cup tournament is being hosted by Canada, the US and Mexico, starting on June 11 in Mexico City, and ending with a championship game on July 19 in New Jersey.
Maple Ridge said its month-long series of World Cup parties will bring residents together to share in the excitement of one of the world’s largest sporting events, while supporting the local economy.
“Maple Ridge, let’s get ready to come together, cheer for Team Canada and celebrate the global love of soccer with a month of free, family-friendly events,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “These events are a great opportunity for our community to connect, be part of the excitement of the World Cup, and create lasting memories while also supporting our local businesses by bringing more people into our downtown.”
The Game On: Soccer Viewing Parties are scheduled as follows:
• June 12 (Canada vs Bosnia-Herzegovina) – Starts at 12:00 p.m., Memorial Peace Park
• June 18 (Canada vs Qatar) – 2:00–7:00 p.m., Memorial Peace Park (game: 3p.m.)
• June 24 (Canada vs Switzerland) – Starts at 12:00 p.m., Memorial Peace Park
• July 1 (Canada Day) – 1:00 and 5:00 p.m. games, The ACT Arts Centre
• July 14 (semi-final) – Starts at 12:00 p.m., Memorial Peace Park
• July 15 (semi-final) – Starts at 12:00 p.m., The ACT Arts Centre
• July 19 (final) – Starts at 12:00 p.m., Memorial Peace Park
These events will be accessible and family-friendly, with matches shown on giant screens at Memorial Peace Park and in the ACT Arts Centre theatre. The city said attendees can expect family activity zones, food trucks and local vendors, local business activations, prizes, and entertainment.
The Pitt Meadow event will take place on June 24, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Family Recreation Centre. The free, family-friendly event will feature a live public viewing of a World Cup match, along with inclusive, intergenerational activities designed to bring the community together in a welcoming and accessible environment.
“This event is about more than watching soccer, it is about creating opportunities for connection, celebrating community spirit and supporting the well-being of our residents,” said Mayor Nicole MacDonald. “We are grateful to the province for this funding, which helps us deliver an inclusive event where everyone feels welcome to come together and share in the excitement of the World Cup.” ‘
Vancouver is hosting a FIFA Fan Festival at the PNE Fairgrounds from June 11 to July 19, with a 10,000 capacity amphitheatre, giants screens and live entertainment.