City of Toronto Names Fort York and The Bentway as FIFA Fan Festival™ Sites for 2026 World Cup

Toronto has officially selected Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway as the dual host venues for the FIFA Fan Festival™ during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the City announced Wednesday. The move signals a key milestone in Toronto’s preparations to welcome the world for the globe’s most-watched sporting event.

The festival will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, providing free, inclusive programming that brings together live match screenings, music, arts, food, and cultural activations for residents and visitors alike.

“This iconic venue reflects our city’s rich history while providing a dynamic space for fans to connect,” said Mayor Olivia Chow, emphasizing the balance between heritage and celebration.

It’s official: the FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto is happening at Fort York and @thebentway 🙌🏾 🙌🏼 🙌🏿
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C’est officiel: le the FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto se déroulera à Fort York et@thebentway 🙌🏾 🙌🏼 🙌🏿https://t.co/AYga3Oxoq6 pic.twitter.com/8qZBrJq2Ed

— FIFA World Cup 26 Toronto (@FWC26Toronto) May 7, 2025

⚽ Two Venues, One Vibrant Festival

Fort York, a 43-acre National Historic Site, and The Bentway, a creative urban public space beneath the Gardiner Expressway, offer distinct yet complementary experiences. Their central location, transit accessibility, and proximity to Toronto Stadium make them ideal for hosting large crowds during the tournament.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Festival™ is an opportunity to celebrate Toronto’s rich heritage alongside the global excitement of the FIFA World Cup™,” said Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik.

The festival will feature:

• Live broadcasts of every FIFA World Cup 2026™ match

• Local and international music & cultural performances

• Interactive soccer-themed installations

• Family-friendly activities and diverse food vendors

🌍 “World in a City” Welcomes the World

Toronto is set to host six matches, including the first-ever men’s FIFA World Cup™ match on Canadian soil on June 12, 2026, and a Round of 32 knockout match on July 2, 2026. According to a Deloitte economic impact assessment, the tournament could generate $940 million in economic output for the GTA, with over 6,600 jobs created between 2023 and 2026.

“Toronto is the world in a city — and in 2026, we look forward to welcoming the world,” said Peter Montopoli, Chief Tournament Officer for FIFA26 Canada.

The City is planning ongoing engagement with local residents, Indigenous groups, and businesses to ensure inclusive and transparent preparations for the Fan Festival™.

More details on operating hours and event programming will be shared on the City’s dedicated World Cup site: toronto.ca/fifa-world-cup-26

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