Maple Ridge is getting into the spirit of the FIFA World Cup with viewing parties and a prize program.
Residents and visitors are invited to be part of the soccer excitement this summer by attending the city’s series of seven free downtown viewing parties kicking off June 12. They can also join the Game On Passport – an interactive prize program offering a chance to earn prize entries by exploring local businesses and locations.
Delivered in partnership with the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association (DMRBIA), the passport program runs from June 5 to July 31, designed to celebrate the excitement of the international soccer tournament while showcasing Maple Ridge’s vibrant local experiences.
Participants can collect digital “Soccer Points” by scanning QR codes at “Goal Zones” found at businesses and locations across the community. Points accumulate and provide entries into weekly prize draws and a grand prize draw. Full details are available at MapleRidge.ca/GameOn.
The eight-week program features diverse restaurants, cafés, shops, breweries, attractions, and unique experiences throughout Maple Ridge. Participating businesses have been onboarded over the past six weeks following their registration of interest with the DMRBIA or completion of the City’s “expression of interest” form located at the Game On for Businesses page.
“Our Game On Passport Program and viewing parties are fun and accessible ways for the community to get active, discover new businesses, and come together to celebrate Canada and the global love of soccer,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “We’re encouraging everyone to try out the prize passport, support local, and enjoy free family fun and soccer match viewing on our 20-foot screen!”
The city will award two weekly prizes valued at approximately $300 each, along with a special DMRBIA Prize Trail Weekend draw (June 26-July 1) valued at approximately $500. At the conclusion of the program, one participant will be selected to win a grand prize valued at $1,000. Residents and visitors can participate by:
• Scanning QR Goal Zones – Participants can visit any of the listed businesses or attractions and scan the Game On “Goal Zone” QR sign to earn 20 soccer points (limit one scan per location per day, no purchase is required for points or entry).
• Tracking Points – Participants can visit other goal zone locations to score and track points. After 100 points (5 scans) they will be entered into one weekly prize draw. More points equal a greater chance to win.
• Watching for Notifications – Participants who have been drawn to receive prizes will be notified by email if they’ve won and winners will be listed at MapleRidge.ca/GameOn.
“This an exciting opportunity for people to discover the incredible businesses, restaurants and experiences that make Maple Ridge unique,” said Nicole Archer, executive director of the DMRBIA. “Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for years, the Game On Passport program encourages exploration, supports local businesses, and helps showcase the energy and diversity of Maple Ridge.”
Seven live viewing parties at Memorial Peace Park and The ACT Arts Centre will feature a range of games, family activities, food trucks, and a 20-foot viewing screen. There is also the possibility for semi-final and final match events to feature licensed beverage spaces. Viewing parties are scheduled for:
• Friday, June 12 (Canada vs Bosnia-Herzegovina) – Noon, Memorial Peace Park
• Thursday, June 18 (Canada vs Qatar) – 2-7 p.m., Memorial Peace Park (game 3 p.m.)
• Wednesday, June 24 (Canada vs Switzerland) noon, Memorial Peace Park
• Wednesday, July 1 (Canada Day) – 1 and 5 p.m. games, The ACT Arts Centre
• Tuesday, July 14 (semi-final) – noon, Memorial Peace Park
• Wednesday, July 15 (semi-final)– noon, The ACT Arts Centre
• Sunday, July 19 (final) noon, Memorial Peace Park
The Game On viewing parties are made possible in part by $80,000 in funding the city has received from the provincial government.