Together with Fort York, The Bentway will co-host the central fan destination for FIFA World Cup in Toronto next year, welcoming thousands of Torontonians and visitors from across the globe to cheer on the game together.
Toronto is a proud host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026, along with 15 other cities in Canada, Mexico and the United States. The city’s diverse neighbourhoods, united by a profound love for soccer, eagerly anticipate welcoming fans from around the world.
The FIFA Fan Festival is a global celebration of soccer, culture and community, designed for fans to enjoy free live broadcasts of FIFA World Cup 2026 matches while experiencing the excitement of an official FIFA World Cup atmosphere.
The Bentway will act a key programming partner for the event, which runs between June 11 and July 19 and will feature live match broadcasts on large screens, diverse cultural performances, interactive installations and a variety of local food experiences. Specific operating days and hours will be available at a later date.
The Bentway has become known as both a beloved backyard park and one of the city’s top creative destinations – forming an exciting cultural campus with Fort York. Now, the sites look ahead to being part of this celebration of the world’s largest sporting spectacle, while showcasing Toronto’s unique cultural vibrancy. Admission to the FIFA Fan Festival Toronto will be free.
“This will truly be an only-at-The-Bentway moment. The FIFA Fan Festival™ will be Toronto’s meeting point for everyone to cheer on their favourite team, celebrate big wins, share in heart-breaking losses, and explore the best of Toronto talent with a range of artistic, creative, and food-based programming. Lots of surprises to come.”
Ilana Altman, Co-Executive Director, The Bentway
Mayor Olivia Chow, City of Toronto
“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. We’re excited to welcome Torontonians and visitors alike to experience the FIFA World Cup in this memorable location.”
Additional details, including the schedule and programming, will be announced at a later date.
The City is committed to keeping the community including local residents, businesses and Indigenous groups well-informed and actively engaged throughout the planning process for the FIFA Fan Festival. The City will continue collaborating closely with these groups to ensure meaningful participation and dialogue. An information session for area residents and businesses is planned in the coming months. Details will be available on the City’s website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/fifa-world-cup-26/.
