Saturday marks Vancouver’s first World Cup game, where Australia will face off against Turkey at B.C. Place.
Here’s what you need to know about watching the game, taking part in festivities and getting around over the next month and a half.
Organizers strongly recommend walking, biking, rolling or taking public transit downtown during the FIFA World Cup.
A number of road closures are in place in Vancouver’s downtown core throughout the next two months, with additional closures on game days.
A five-block stretch of Granville Street between Davie Street and West Georgia Street is now a pedestrian zone, closed to traffic until late July.
During this time, buses and vehicle traffic are being rerouted to Howe Street and Seymour Street.
Final preparations underway ahead of FIFA World Cup
Pacific Boulevard between the Cambie Bridge and Carrall Street will also be closed for the duration of the tournament, as it will be home to a spectator route for those travelling from the SkyTrain to B.C. Place.
Those attending games are being asked to get off the SkyTrain at the Main Street Science World station.
Several other streets surrounding the stadium are also closed on game days, starting Saturday, including stretches of Expo Boulevard, Quebec Street, Beatty Street and Keefer Street.
You can find more information about road closures here.
Temperatures are heating up this weekend, with highs of 24 C expected in the city, reaching 31 C inland.
The official FIFA Fan Festival will be held on game days at the newly opened PNE amphitheatre, with matches being broadcast live on screens. It will also include fan installations, food and beverage options, along with and musical performances.
You can learn more about the FIFA Fan Festival and how to get there here.
Granville Street pedestrian zone an early hit with World Cup fans
Granville Street has transformed into a pedestrian zone with installations, expanded patios and photo ops, with each block having a different theme.
The city has not said there will be screens for viewing the games, so fans may need to visit bars and restaurants along the street to watch the matches.
For those who don’t have tickets to games, free watch parties are being held across the city.
Fans can watch games for free at the official FIFA Fan Festival being held at the PNE. But here are some other free viewing festivals in Metro Vancouver:
University of British Columbia
Where: Westbrook Village
When: June 11 and July 19
Where: The Amazing Brentwood (Plaza and TABLES Lounge)
When: June 11 and July 19
Where: Surrey Civic Plaza, 13450 104 Ave
When: June 11 and July 19
Where: Canada Soccer House at the Shipyards
When: June 11 and July 19
Where: Various locations, including Blue Mountain Park, Town Centre Park, and Percy Perry Stadium
When: June 24, July 1, and July 19
