The FIFA World Cup trophy in Lusail, Qatar, Dec. 18, 2022. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner via Canadian Press)

By Victor Kaisar

Watch Parties

Prince George councillors proposing series of outdoor watch parties for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Aug 31, 2025 | 12:40 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — Two Prince George City Councillors have put forward a plan to host a number of free outdoor watch parties at Canada Games Plaza during next summer’s FIFA men’s World Cup.

A notice of motion from Councillors Ron Polillo and Cori Ramsay is set to be discussed at Wednesday’s (Sept. 3) City Council meeting.

It’s asking council to direct city staff to work on these watch parties in conjunction with Tourism Prince George, the Downtown Business Improvement Association, Prince George Youth Soccer, and the Prince George Soccer Association.

The 2026 World Cup – which is being co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States – is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 next year. Seven of the 104 games will be played at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver.

Polillo and Ramsay are proposing to host watch parties during all three of Canada’s group stage games – June 12, June 18, and June 24 – plus any games that Canada plays in the knockout stages.

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They’re also proposing to host a watch party for the final on July 19.

“Hosting watch parties for each of the games could create a trickle effect for economic development and hosting watch parties may generate economic activity for downtown creating added benefit for downtown businesses,” the notice of motion said.

“Hosting community, family-friendly outdoor events that activate our downtown spaces align with council’s strategic priorities and will showcase our national pride for the world’s most popular sport.”

Polillo and Ramsay say the watch parties should include music and food trucks, adding considerations for a family-friendly entertainment area and a beer garden “could also enhance the event.”

Council is also being asked to direct staff to return with a report that will include an event budget for approval.

“We believe opportunity exists for pre-game advertisements and sponsorship to assist with cost recovery for the event,” the notice of motion said, noting addition costs could potentially be covered by the Civic Events budget or the Council contingency fund.