11 Ways to Celebrate FIFA Season in Vancouver, Even If You Don’t Have World Cup Tickets

It’s hard to believe we’re already less than two weeks away from the first FIFA World Cup 2026 match in Vancouver. But why limit your excitement to the games alone? As the city gets into the soccer spirit, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained off the field as well. From watch parties to science exhibits, we rounded up 11 World Cup-themed events you won’t want to miss this summer. 

READ MORE: Everything We Know About FIFA World Cup 2026 So Far

1. Get Your Game On With Otters and Sea Lions at Vancouver Aquarium

The World Cup isn’t just for humans, it seems. Even the beloved animals at Vancouver Aquarium are getting in on the action. On weekends, match days and stat holidays until July 12, you can catch special otter-feeding sessions with soccer ball-themed treats made from ice, jello or shrimp paste. You might even get to see the otters play with an actual soccer ball, which—c’mon—is objectively delightful. This FIFA festivity is perfect for families with small children, or for those who simply want to learn about these wonderful marine mammals while staying in the soccer spirit.

2. Party It Up at Library Square Pub

Library Square Pub is known as Vancouver’s official home of Celtic FC, so you better believe it’s going all-out for the World Cup. The space will be decked out with wall-to-wall indoor viewing and expanded outdoor screens, ensuring every match and team is accessible in the highest quality to dedicated fans. If you’re looking for a space to enjoy the game outside of BC Place, a packed room with an electric atmosphere awaits you. (Make sure you reserve a spot, though!)

READ MORE: Is Vancouver Ready for FIFA World Cup 2026?

3. Explore the Neighbourhood in Gastown

Gastown is gearing up to be a hub for hospitality as global guests make their way to Vancouver this summer. Aside from a variety of watch parties, you can also grab an ice-cold pint of Gastown’s first lager—plus limited-edition jerseys, t-shirts and scarves to celebrate. If you’d like to support some local businesses (and why wouldn’t you?!), the neighborhood is also doing a passport program to reward boppers and shoppers for exploring.

4. Get Ahead of the Game at Granville Island

No spare change? No problem. Granville Island is hosting free watch parties from June 11 to July 19. Showings will be accompanied by rotating food trucks and a beer garden. The Improv Centre, Zara Durrani and the Squamish Nations’ Khelsilem will also be holding a pair of kick-off parties, featuring sets from local DJs, family-friendly games and activities—including, of course, face painting (would a party be complete without it?!).

5. Indulge in Sweet Treats and Cocktails at the Pac Rim Sports Patio

If you’re a Team Canada fan, Pac Rim Sports Patio is the place for you during the World Cup. Following a land acknowledgement and warm welcome delivered by the Squamish Nation, you can sip on a number of cocktails from Botanist Bar, the Keefer Bar and June and Meo. And if you need something to eat—cheering on athletes is hungry work, after all—you can munch on some canapés or sweets from Hype Chocolate. Throw in a crowd of like-minded soccer fans and you’ve got yourself a good time.

6. Step Away From the City and Celebrate at Capilano Suspension Bridge

Have you ever seen a giant soccer ball dangling from a 230-feet-high suspension bridge? We’ll guess no. But here’s your chance! Capilano Suspension Bridge Park’s Canyon Kick-Off event is set for June 6 to June 14: the park will become your spot for picturesque photographs, a sticker album challenge and games like foosball and soccer cornhole. The Cliff House restaurant will also offer a “globally inspired” menu (because it’s World Cup!) with items like Belgian moules frites and a Caesar topped with maple-caramelized bacon.

7. Yes, Science and Soccer Do Go Together

From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on June 10, come checkout Science World’s new exhibit without any pesky kids in the way: the adults-only After Dark night gives you access to the new Soccer and Technology exhibit from the FIFA Museum. The evening will include a live juggling performance from Grayson Freestyle, as well as interactive stations that teach about biomechanics and human motion. For those who are just in it for a party, head to the BodyWorks Gallery for a drink and a dance.

8. Spend a Whole Day Wandering the Streets of Yaletown

From unique photo opportunities to open-air game screenings, Yaletown will have enough activities to keep you busy for the entire World Cup. From June 11 to July 19, check out Yaletown’s Goal Line Moments—visually exciting installations that are perfect for capturing your favourite World Cup memories. Tag your photos with #PlayYaletown for a chance to win $1,000 to your favourite Yaletown business. Along with miniature soccer fields, live performances and afternoon barbeques, there’s more than enough to keep the whole family entertained.

9. Score Big With the Plethora of Activities at the Westin Bayshore

Immersive watch parties on an LED Infinity Wall? Check. A virtual soccer game that tests how good of a leg you’ve got? Check. And that doesn’t even scratch the surface of what the Westin Bay’Score Fan Experience has to offer. Not exclusive to hotel guests, the event runs from June 15 to 18, June 27 to July 15, and July 19. It offers an elevated World Cup experience for the fans who aren’t as accustomed to packed crowds and rambunctious cheering. You won’t miss out on classic stadium food, though; the menu will offer classic but elevated stadium food, in addition to alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. And don’t forget to check out the various packages and deals in advance.

10. Why Limit Yourself to One Watch Party?

With so many screenings of World Cup games happening in Vancouver, there’s no reason you can’t check out more than a few of them. The staff at Fanny Bay Oyster Bar and Shellfish Market will be in full FIFA fashion, and you can try seasonal game-day menu items while keeping up with matches from around the globe—not to mention the interactive scorecard contests where you could win an oyster enthusiast’s dream prize package. Sopra Sotto in East Vancouver and Loula’s Taverna on Commercial Drive are each offering game-day food and drink features starting on June 11, making them perfect for residents who live in those respective areas. If you prefer to enjoy the game from up high, Lavantine Rooftop and Skybar is waiting for you with an elevated atmosphere, Veuve Clicquot and handcrafted cocktails. Finally, try out the trio of cocktails and shareable menu at Copperpenny Distilling Co., which is showing everything from early-morning to late-night matches.

11. Enjoy More Than Just the Game at Parq Casino

Looking for a little thrill beyond the game? Head to Parq Casino to watch matches on a 50-foot screen, listen to live DJ sets and enjoy $6 drinks on tap from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (and maybe hit the slots, if that’s your speed). Once your tastebuds start calling for an energizing and delicious meal, grab a bite at D/6 Lounge, The Victor or Honey Salt. And don’t forget to capture the moment in front of the photo wall before you leave!