The first match of the FIFA World Cup may be taking place more than 2,000 miles away in Mexico City, but Stephen Avenue in Calgary hosted its own fiesta with a watch party organized by the Mexican Consulate on Thursday afternoon.
Massive World Cup Celebration
This is the largest World Cup in history, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, featuring 104 matches over 39 days. The watch party celebrated the inaugural match between Mexico and South Africa, said Deputy Consul Sebastian Galvan Duque.
Although no official count was taken, Duque estimated that more than 200 spectators attended the event. It was made possible through collaboration with the Calgary Downtown Association, which brought fans together for the 1 p.m. kickoff.
“It was months long in planning, but we’re very happy to offer something not only to our Mexican community, but also to the Calgary community in general, in a way that we can all together celebrate the wonderful world of football,” Duque said.
Community and Culture
Calgary is home to over 10,000 Mexican nationals who live, work, and study in the city. The watch party featured not only the game and opening ceremony on a massive screen but also Mexican female entrepreneurs showcasing their businesses.
“We’re passionate about our national team, and no matter what part of the world, we’re always going to cheer,” Duque added.
Future Events
Duque announced plans for more watch parties for Team Mexico in other parts of Calgary. The Calgary Downtown Association worked with both the Mexican and American Consulates to create a vibrant downtown experience.
Andrew Doudican, urban strategy director for the association, said, “It creates a space where families want to come down and experience downtown, and people that live downtown want to experience the atmosphere that can only be created here. Stuff like this is very important to us.”
Three events for Team Canada’s group stage matches are scheduled at Eau Claire starting Friday, with a final event returning to Stephen Avenue on July 19.
