On May 7, 2025, the City of Toronto revealed that Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway will host the FIFA Fan Festival™ during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, a major milestone in the city’s preparations for the global event.
This free, inclusive celebration will unite soccer fans through live match broadcasts, cultural performances, and local cuisine, showcasing Toronto’s vibrant diversity.
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A Historic Celebration at Fort York and The Bentway
Toronto is pulling out all the stops for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, and the announcement of Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway as the venues for the FIFA Fan Festival™ underscores the city’s commitment to blending history with modern celebration.
From June 11 to July 19, 2026, these iconic locations will transform into a hub of soccer fandom, offering fans a free space to watch live broadcasts of all 104 World Cup matches on large screens, enjoy diverse performances, and savor local food experiences.
The FIFA Fan Festival™ is more than just a viewing party—it’s a global celebration of soccer, culture, and community.
Toronto’s edition will highlight the city’s reputation as the “World in a City,” reflecting its unmatched diversity through art, music, and interactive installations.
Specific operating days and hours will be announced closer to the event, but the festival promises to be a memorable experience for both residents and visitors.
Why Fort York and The Bentway?
The selection of Fort York and The Bentway as the FIFA Fan Festival™ venues is a nod to Toronto’s rich history and creative spirit, while also ensuring accessibility for fans.
Fort York National Historic Site
Established in 1793, Fort York is a cornerstone of Toronto’s history, best known for its role in the Battle of York during the War of 1812.
This 43-acre archeological park once served as the city’s primary harbor defense and housed a military garrison until the 1930s.
Today, it preserves Canada’s largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings and welcomes thousands of visitors annually to explore its past through public programs.
Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1923, Fort York offers a unique backdrop for the festival, blending Toronto’s heritage with the global excitement of the World Cup.
The Bentway
Located beneath the elevated Gardiner Expressway in west downtown Toronto, The Bentway is a dynamic outdoor public space that has become a beloved community hub.
Managed by The Bentway Conservancy, a not-for-profit organization, this venue is known for its innovative programming, including artist installations, performances, and community events.
The Bentway’s mission to “ignite the urban imagination” makes it an ideal setting for a festival that aims to inspire and connect people through sport and culture.
Both venues are strategically located near transit hubs and Toronto Stadium (BMO Field), ensuring easy access for fans.
Their cultural significance and modern appeal make them perfect for hosting a global event like the FIFA Fan Festival™.
What to Expect at the FIFA Fan Festival™
The FIFA Fan Festival™ in Toronto will run for the duration of the World Cup, from June 11 to July 19, 2026, offering a packed schedule of activities designed to engage fans of all ages.
Here’s what attendees can look forward to:
Live Match Broadcasts: Large screens will broadcast all 104 FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches, allowing fans to cheer for their favorite teams in a vibrant, communal atmosphere.
Cultural Performances: Toronto’s diversity will shine through live music, dance, and art performances, showcasing the city’s multicultural talent.
Local Food Experiences: A variety of food vendors will offer Toronto’s culinary specialties, reflecting the city’s global flavors.
Interactive Installations: From soccer-themed games to art exhibits, interactive elements will keep visitors entertained between matches.
Community Engagement: The City of Toronto is committed to involving local residents, businesses, and Indigenous groups in the planning process.
An information session for the community will be held in the coming months, with details to be shared on the City’s FIFA World Cup 26™ website.
The festival aims to create an inclusive space where Torontonians and international visitors can connect through their shared love of soccer, while celebrating the city’s unique identity.
Toronto’s Role in the FIFA World Cup 2026™
Toronto is set to play a significant role in the FIFA World Cup 2026™, hosting six matches at BMO Field, including the first-ever men’s World Cup match on Canadian soil on June 12, 2026, and a round of 32 match on July 2, 2026.
The tournament, which will feature 48 teams across 16 host cities in Canada, the United States, and Mexico, marks the largest World Cup in history with 104 matches in total.
Vancouver will also host seven matches, making Canada a key player in this North American event.
To prepare for the tournament, Toronto is undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades, including a $150 million renovation of BMO Field to increase its capacity to 45,000 seats with temporary seating, modernize facilities, and improve Wi-Fi and broadcast systems.
These enhancements, supported by funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario, ensure the city is ready to welcome the world.
Economic and Social Impact of the World Cup
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to Toronto.
According to a December 2024 economic impact assessment by Deloitte Canada, the tournament could generate up to $940 million in positive economic output for the Greater Toronto Area.
Key projections include:
- GDP Growth: $520 million in GDP growth for the region.
- Labor Income: $340 million in wages for workers.
- Government Revenue: $25 million in tax revenue.
- Job Creation: Over 6,600 jobs between June 2023 and August 2026.
Beyond the numbers, the World Cup offers a chance to showcase Toronto’s cultural vibrancy and global appeal.
Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized the significance of the chosen venues, stating, “Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway offer the ideal setting for Toronto’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Festival™.
This iconic venue reflects our city’s rich history while providing a dynamic space for fans to connect and celebrate their love of soccer, right in the heart of our city.”
Ontario Minister of Sport Neil Lumsden added, “Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Festival™ at Fort York and The Bentway provides us with the opportunity to highlight Ontario’s rich heritage and vibrant culture, while creating a truly unique fan experience.”
Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, Councillor for Spadina–Fort York, highlighted the community aspect, noting, “Fort York is a significant historic landmark, and alongside The Bentway, is a vibrant community hub in our city.”
Peter Montopoli, Chief Tournament Officer for FIFA26 Canada, captured the global significance of the event: “Toronto is the world in a city—and in 2026, we look forward to welcoming the world to celebrate the biggest FIFA World Cup™ in history.”
Community Involvement and Transparency
The City of Toronto is prioritizing community engagement in its World Cup preparations.
Local residents, businesses, and Indigenous groups will be kept informed and involved throughout the planning process for the FIFA Fan Festival™.
The city plans to hold an information session in the coming months to ensure meaningful dialogue and participation.
Details will be available on the City’s FIFA World Cup 26™ website, reflecting Toronto’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity.
This collaborative approach ensures that the festival not only celebrates soccer but also reflects the needs and aspirations of the community.
By choosing venues like Fort York and The Bentway, the city is creating a space where history, culture, and sport can intersect, fostering a sense of pride among Torontonians.
The Broader Context of FIFA World Cup 2026™
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is a landmark event for North America, marking the first time the tournament will be hosted across three countries—Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
With 48 teams competing, the tournament will be the largest in history, offering more matches and opportunities for fans to engage with the sport.
Toronto’s six matches, alongside Vancouver’s seven, position Canada as a key player in this global spectacle.
The World Cup will also serve as a dry run for other FIFA events, such as the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with its final set for MetLife Stadium in New Jersey—the same venue slated to host the 2026 World Cup final.
Fan festivals like the one in Toronto will be a staple across host cities, with similar events planned in places like Jersey City’s Liberty State Park and various cities in Washington state.
Why This Matters for Toronto
Toronto’s selection of Fort York and The Bentway for the FIFA Fan Festival™ is a strategic move to highlight the city’s unique blend of history and modernity.
As a city of over three million people, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, culture, and innovation.
Its diversity—often described as the “world in a city”—makes it an ideal host for an event that celebrates global unity through sport.
The festival will also boost local businesses, particularly those near Fort York and The Bentway, as fans flock to the area for the month-long celebration.
The economic benefits, combined with the chance to showcase Toronto on the world stage, make the World Cup a transformative opportunity for the city.
How to Stay Informed and Get Involved
For those eager to participate in the FIFA Fan Festival™ or attend World Cup matches in Toronto, here are some steps to take:
- Visit the City’s Website: The City of Toronto’s FIFA World Cup 26™ website will provide updates on the festival’s schedule, community information sessions, and ticketing details.
- Sign Up for Canada Soccer’s Lottery: Canada Soccer is offering a ticket allotment lottery through the CanadaRED fan club program, giving fans a chance to secure seats for Canada’s matches.
- Follow FIFA Updates: FIFA encourages fans to register on FIFA.com for ticket information, with hospitality packages already available and single-game tickets to follow after the December 2025 draw.
- Engage Locally: Attend the upcoming information session to learn how you or your business can get involved in the festival.
The FIFA Fan Festival™ promises to be a highlight of Toronto’s World Cup experience, bringing together fans from around the globe in a celebration of soccer and culture.
A World-Class Celebration in Toronto
The announcement of Fort York and The Bentway as the venues for Toronto’s FIFA Fan Festival™ sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration during the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
These iconic locations will provide a stunning backdrop for fans to come together, watch matches, and immerse themselves in Toronto’s rich cultural tapestry.
With significant economic benefits, community engagement, and a global spotlight on the city, the World Cup is poised to be a defining moment for Toronto.
Mark your calendars for June 11 to July 19, 2026, and get ready to experience the world’s largest sporting event in one of the most diverse and dynamic cities on earth.
Toronto is ready to welcome the world—are you?
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