Soccer mania has erupted in Vancouver following Team Canada's 6-0 win over Qatar, drawing thousands of fans to outdoor viewing spaces. Restaurants, bars, and dedicated fan zones have been packed. The Granville Island watch party, featuring a seven-metre screen and capacity for 1,000 people, has been particularly popular. Across Metro Vancouver, other cities are also embracing the games: Surrey is broadcasting 100 matches in three Soccer Fan Zones (downtown Civic Plaza, Cloverdale Agriplex, and South Surrey Athletic Park); Delta has zones at North Delta Recreation Centre and Ladner Village Pop-Up Park; and Richmond hosts watch parties culminating July 19 at Aberdeen Neighbourhood Park. However, three major gathering spots have attracted the largest crowds, each offering distinct experiences for eager, jersey-wearing footie fanatics.
PNE Fan Fest (FIFA Fan Festival)
Venue: PNE Grounds, 2901 E. Hastings St., Vancouver. Hours: Free entry on June 24, opens 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (times vary daily; check vancouverfwc26.ca). The main event location is the new Freedom Mobile Arch amphitheatre, featuring three large LED screens. The Park Stage is a second large viewing zone with both main stage and rear screens. There are 11 additional live broadcast locations across the PNE; a full map is available online.
Seating capacity is 10,000, with tiered and ground seating on the upper grassy area. Arrive early for prime sight lines, especially for the Canada vs. Switzerland match. Food options range from amphitheatre concessions to food trucks and booths offering a wide variety. Limited table seating at shared picnic tables, plus bench and ground seating.
Entertainment includes performances by Los Duendes at 2:10 p.m. and Bob Moses at 8:10 p.m. at the amphitheatre. The Park Stage features DJs and bands, along with interactive games, exhibits, and displays. The atmosphere is a party vibe, with spontaneous chants from standing room areas and dancing in the tiers. The Park Stage lacks shade but has a water misting zone and some shaded areas. The crowd is packed, lively, and moving; small children may have trouble seeing the broadcast. For a more relaxed experience, visit smaller viewing screens across the site, such as the grassy knoll at the Neighbourhood, which offers food from Vij, Nuba, and others.
Canada Soccer House
Venue: The Shipyard Commons at Lonsdale Quay, North Vancouver. Hours: Based on the first and last match of the day; on June 24, open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The main screen is nine metres wide, easily viewable from the back of the 20,000-square-foot commons area. A smaller screen nearby offers a less boisterous experience.
Granville Street Pedestrian Zone
Granville Street has been transformed into a pedestrian-only zone for World Cup viewing, drawing large crowds. The area features multiple screens and a festive atmosphere, with fans celebrating Canada's victories.
Additional Viewing Options
Beyond these three major spots, numerous restaurants and bars across Metro Vancouver are showing World Cup games. The Granville Island watch party remains a popular choice. Surrey's three Soccer Fan Zones, Delta's two zones, and Richmond's various watch parties provide additional options for fans across the region.
