You don’t need tickets to a FIFA World Cup match to be part of the excitement this summer.
From giant fan festivals and interactive exhibits to watch parties, soccer-themed attractions, and family activities across Metro Vancouver, there are plenty of ways for kids (and parents) to experience FIFA World Cup fever without stepping inside BC Place.
After visiting the LEGO Canada activation at the FIFA Fan Festival myself, I quickly realized that many families don’t know just how many FIFA experiences are happening throughout the Lower Mainland.
Here’s my family-friendly guide to the best FIFA events happening around Metro Vancouver this summer.
1. FIFA Fan Festival at the PNE
📍 PNE Fairgrounds, Vancouver
📅 June 11 – July 19
If you’re only planning one FIFA experience this summer, make it this one.
The FIFA Fan Festival is essentially FIFA headquarters for fans without game tickets. Families can watch matches on massive screens, enjoy live entertainment, interactive activities, cultural performances, food vendors, sponsor activations, and special events throughout the tournament. The festival was designed to be family-friendly and accessible for all ages.
Highlights include:
- LEGO Canada activation
- Interactive sponsor experiences
- Live entertainment
- Giant viewing screens
- Food trucks and vendors
- Family activities
- Photo opportunities
Parent Tips
✔ Arrive early on match days
✔ Take transit whenever possible
✔ Expect airport-style security
✔ Bring sunscreen
✔ Bring a hat
✔ Check the daily schedule before you go
One thing I noticed during our visit was that crowds build quickly, especially around popular activations.
2. Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum
📍 Science World
📅 May 15 – September 7
This is probably the most educational FIFA activity for families.
Science World’s special FIFA Museum exhibition explores how science, technology, engineering, and innovation impact the world’s most popular sport. The exhibit runs all summer and is included as part of your Science World visit.
Kids can learn about:
- Sports technology
- Goal-line technology
- Athlete performance
- Engineering in soccer
- Interactive exhibits
Plus, Science World itself is always a win for families.
Parent Tip
Pair this with a full Science World day and make use of the outdoor water park if the weather cooperates.
3. FIFA Dome at Science World
One of Vancouver’s coolest photo opportunities this summer is simply outside Science World.
The iconic dome has been transformed into a giant FIFA soccer ball known as “The Beautiful Dome.”
Perfect for:
- Family photos
- Tourist photos
- FIFA-themed content
- Kids who love spotting giant landmarks
4. Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Kick-Off
📍 Capilano Suspension Bridge
📅 June 6 – July 19
Capilano Suspension Bridge has joined the FIFA celebration with soccer-themed activities included with admission.
If you’re already planning a visit, this is a great way to combine outdoor adventure with FIFA fun.
5. Surrey Soccer Fan Zones
📍 Surrey Civic Plaza
📍 Cloverdale Agriplex
📍 South Surrey Athletic Park
📅 June 11 – July 19
Surrey is hosting multiple family-friendly soccer fan zones throughout the tournament.
These community events offer opportunities to watch matches, participate in soccer-themed activities, and celebrate the World Cup atmosphere closer to home.
Perfect if you don’t want to battle Vancouver traffic.
6. Richmond Celebrates Soccer
📍 Various Richmond Parks
📅 June 12 – July 19
Richmond is bringing FIFA celebrations into local parks through community events and soccer-themed activities.
If you’re already planning a Richmond day, it’s worth checking the city’s event calendar before you go.
7. Richmond Night Market FIFA Experiences
The Richmond Night Market is embracing World Cup season with FIFA-inspired activations, themed experiences, and a fun international atmosphere that pairs perfectly with the tournament.
This is especially fun for older kids who enjoy trying foods from around the world.
Parent Tip
Go earlier in the evening if you’re bringing younger children. The crowds become much heavier later at night.
8. Canada Soccer House at The Shipyards
📍 North Vancouver
📅 June 11 – July 19
The Shipyards is hosting Canada Soccer House, creating another family-friendly gathering place for fans.
Expect:
- Match viewing
- Community celebrations
- Interactive activities
- Family-friendly programming
9. Granville Island FIFA Activities
📍 Granville Island
📅 June 11 – July 19
Granville Island is joining the World Cup festivities with special programming throughout the tournament.
This makes for a great family day:
✔ Kids Market
✔ Playground
✔ Public Market
✔ FIFA activities
✔ Waterfront walks
10. Township of Langley FIFA Events
📍 Township of Langley
📅 Select dates
Langley is hosting FIFA-themed community events throughout the tournament period, offering another great option for Fraser Valley families.
Before You Go: Parent Survival Guide
Bring
✔ Refillable water bottle (where permitted)
✔ Sunscreen
✔ Hat
✔ Portable phone charger
✔ Snacks for younger children
✔ Comfortable walking shoes
✔ Weather-appropriate clothing
Expect
✔ Security screening at major venues
✔ Long lineups on weekends
✔ Increased traffic around host locations
✔ Limited parking at some events
✔ Higher attendance on Canadian match days
Best Events for Younger Kids
⭐ Science World FIFA Exhibit
⭐ FIFA Dome
⭐ Surrey Fan Zones
⭐ Granville Island
⭐ LEGO Canada activation at the Fan Festival
Best Events for Older Kids & Teens
⭐ FIFA Fan Festival
⭐ Richmond Night Market
⭐ Canada Soccer House
⭐ Match viewing parties
⭐ Capilano Suspension Bridge
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