Summary

• In celebration of FIFA World Cup 2026, the Province is providing $1.7 million to support 32 communities throughout British Columbia to host local events that celebrate the unifying power of sport
• Local events will celebrate community spirit through soccer-themed activities, live public match viewings, multiculturalism, local performers and food and beverage offerings

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People throughout B.C. will have more opportunities to experience the FIFA World Cup in their own communities.

“We are proud to help bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 to communities throughout B.C.,” said Premier David Eby. “Hosting this tournament is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. It’s something that everyone will remember, especially the thousands of kids in B.C. who look up to these incredible athletes. It’s about sharing the love of sport, and the excitement, energy and pride in hosting the largest single-sport event in the world.”

The 2026 Community Event Support Fund will provide $1.7 million in one-time funding to 32 municipalities, regional districts and First Nations to host free public events to ensure British Columbians throughout the province can participate in FIFA World Cup festivities.

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 is an incredible opportunity for people in British Columbia to come together and celebrate the beautiful game,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “We want people to feel the excitement of the world’s largest single-sport event throughout the province. This is about ensuring everyone can share in the energy and social benefits of the FIFA World Cup right in their own backyard.”

2026 Community Event Support Fund

This funding supports the planning, promotion and safe delivery of soccer-themed events that foster community pride and cultural expression, benefit local businesses and help attract visitors to regions throughout the province during the tournament.

The community events range from single-day soccer-themed community gatherings to large, multi-day live public match viewing events. Funding can be used to cover a range of operational expenses, such as local performers, security, viewing screens, signage and communications.

As part of the Province’s Look West: Tourism Sector Action Plan, the 2026 Community Event Support Fund leverages the global profile and excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026. By creating engaging, locally driven celebrations around one of the world’s most-watched sporting events, government is boosting tourism, showcasing cultural diversity and supporting a resilient year-round economy.

Some of the grant recipients include:

• Haida Gwaii to host celebration events in Daajing Gilds, Masset, Old Masset and Skidegate
• Delta to host events throughout tournament time at North Delta Recreation Centre and the Chisholm Wharf
• 2026 Alberni Valley Indigenous-Led Soccer Community Celebration, hosted in partnership by the Hupacaseth, Tseshaht and Huu-ay-aht First Nations
• Prince George to host Watch Party in the Plaza for the final match of the FIFA World Cup
• Central Coast Regional District for a series of community-based FIFA World Cup celebration events across multiple sites from June 18 until July 19
• Comox Valley to host a public viewing of Canada’s opening match on June 12 along with live local music and cultural performances
• Coquitlam to host live public match viewings rotating across three outdoor locations, plus an extensive community block-party grant program
• Langford to host a month-long celebration stretching through Langford’s cultural district with several days of live public match viewings

Quotes:

Jessie Adcock, lead, Vancouver Host Committee –

“The beautiful game belongs to everyone, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 is an opportunity to bring people together across cultures, generations and communities. These grants help ensure the energy, excitement and joy of the tournament aren’t limited to host cities but felt in every corner of the province. From small towns to urban centres, B.C. will celebrate together.”

Richard Stewart, mayor of Coquitlam –

“Hosting these events as part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring our community together to celebrate and be part of the excitement. Coquitlam’s Summer of Soccer will be free and accessible for everyone, made possible in part through provincial support. We’re proud to play a role in creating experiences that residents will remember long after the final whistle.”

Jayme Kennedy, chair, Central Coast Regional District –

“We’re thrilled to host a series of community-focused events across the region in June and July to join the FIFA World Cup 2026 celebration. These events will be great for the community and for visitors, offering a fun and meaningful way for our region to be part of this historic moment.”

Melanie McCollum, chair, Comox Valley Recreation Commission –

“Events like this strengthen our community by creating opportunities for people to come together, connect and celebrate diversity. We are proud to support initiatives that are accessible, inclusive and reflective of the Comox Valley.”

Scott Goodmanson, mayor of Langford –

“Hosting a free community celebration throughout the World Cup is an opportunity for people to come together and share in the excitement of a global event. We are proud to offer an inclusive space where folks can connect, celebrate and enjoy world-class soccer. We are grateful to the Province for the support, which helps make this free event possible and reinforces the value of investing in experiences that bring people together, no matter what team they are cheering for.”

Quick Facts:

• Funded events will take place during the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament period: June 11, 2026, until July 19, 2026.
• The 32 funded events will deliver a combined total of 333 event days and reach a potential total estimated attendance of one million people.
• The Tourism Sector Action Plan aims to double tourism revenue by 2036.

Learn More:

• For the full list of 2026 Community Events Support Fund recipients, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2026WorldCupFundRecepients.pdf
• Learn about other ways the Province is supporting people and families: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/home/benefits
• To learn about how the Province is supporting the tourism and outdoor recreation industry, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/look-west-strategy/diversifying-markets-and-growing-targeted-sectors/tourism-action-plan