Our of list of places to go — from big watch parties to the off-the-beaten-track gatherings
FIFA World Cup is in full swing. With Toronto as one of 16 host cities across North America, it feels like the city has been taken over by fans and flags; at other times, it’s just another hot, humid summer day in the city and the only things taking up space are the normal traffic and construction.
Whether you’re feeling the hype or happily staying on the periphery, now is the time to bicycle-kick-it in and experience FIFA World Cup with your fellow Torontonians. With final matches taking place, and Canada making it into the unprecendented round of 16, there is no better moment than now to cheer on your favourites or jump on the nearest bandwagon until the final game on July 19th.
Here is a list of some free places to catch the World Cup fever — plus a few surprising locations offering up a place to wave your flag. Cue: K’naan’s Wavin’ Flag from 2010 FIFA World Cup
Harbourfront Centre is celebrating all things soccer with a floating futsal and a community pitch. It is also home to Canada Soccer House where fans can come together and watch matches right on Toronto’s waterfront.
Nathan Phillips Square has transformed the skating rink by winter and fountain by summer into three mini soccer pitches free for playing. A big screen is set up for viewing select games (see schedule here). While you’re downtown, you take part in The Great Beaver Quest. Fifty-one beaver statues hand-painted by local artists, representing the nations competing this year, are located across the downtown. Download the app to find them all — there is a weekly chance to win. On until August 16th.
Fort York & The Bentway are hosting the FIFA Fan Festival. It’s the biggest FIFA vibes outside of attending a game, delivering match broadcasts, musical performances, food vendors and fun activations. General admission tickets are free; some premium options are for purchase.
Evergreen Brick Works is bringing soccer in the middle of nature a series of football watch parties. You can expect good food and some soccer skills demos.
Stackt Market is presenting a selection of live match broadcasts.
Distillery District has 50 screens, a massive 20-foot and a 140-inch outdoor screen on the Pure Spirits patio.
The Aga Khan Museum is hosting free outdoor viewing parties.
The University of Toronto’s Front Campus has free outdoor watch parties.
The Toronto Public Library is hosting free, family-friendly watch parties at numerous library branches across the city.
The TTC has rounded up some watch parties — from neighbourhood celebrations to activations across the city — and how to get there on public transit.
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