FIFA World Cup watch party at Riverside Park, June 12, 2026. (Image Credit: CFJC Today)
Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Sharing the power of sports

Jun 17, 2026 | 10:30 AM

AFTER YEARS OF PLANNING, FIFA World Cup 2026 has officially kicked off, with events happening all throughout B.C.! 

It is an incredible opportunity to bring people together from around the world to celebrate and watch incredible athletes play the people’s game right here in B.C.

British Columbia is known for its amazing scenery, friendly people and world-renowned hospitality, and I know that we will be welcoming the world with open arms. 

And you don’t have to be in Vancouver or at a stadium to join in on the fun. Sports are a great way to help bring communities together, and that’s why our government provided grants to 33 communities throughout B.C. through the Community Event Support Fund, including in Kamloops.

On June 18, the City of Kamloops is a stop on the Canada Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026 route! People can join in on the celebration at Riverside Park and expect live match viewing, cultural and music performances, interactive football activities for all ages featuring mini soccer pitches, arcade-style soccer challenges and local food and community programming. 

Additionally, The City of Kamloops will be hosting Riverside Park Watch Parties from June 11 to July 19 for every single match. The games will be broadcast on a large screen at the Rotary Bandshell with enhanced events planned around Team Canada matches and the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. These events will feature family and soccer-focused activities, live entertainment, food trucks and beer gardens. 

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is the largest single-sport event in the world, and it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to host it right here in B.C. The energy is already buzzing throughout the province and it’s so heartwarming to see people coming together to cheer on Canada and their other favourite teams. 

There are so many young people and kids who love soccer and many of them will remember this time for the rest of their lives, but we know people can’t always afford to make it to a game. That’s why we’re making it easier for young soccer fans to see their favourite players and get to the most exciting games. We’re distributing 500 tickets through local organizations in B.C. serving children and youth who are facing barriers to help make their dreams come true and get them to a FIFA World Cup 2026 match. 

On top of bringing our province together and celebrating in every corner of B.C., the tournament is expected to generate more than $1 billion in visitor spending for B.C.’s economy over the next five years, creating good-paying jobs for people and giving a boost to our tourism and hospitality sectors.

I hope everyone has a wonderful time this summer celebrating the FIFA World Cup 2026 – Go Canada!

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.