The Comox Valley Regional District says the region is preparing to celebrate Canada’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a community viewing event.
As part of a B.C. government announcement Tuesday, the Comox Valley will receive $60,000 to host a viewing party for Canada’s opening match on June 12, along with live local music and cultural performances.
Melanie McCollum, chair of the Comox Valley Recreation Commission, said organizers are excited to host an affordable event for residents across the Comox Valley.
“Very few people can afford to go and attend in person so having an event like this where it’s free, it’s family-friendly, it’s inclusive and we can bring the whole community together and celebrate the diversity of the Comox Valley and really share connection through a fun experience.”
McCollum said planning for the viewing party is still in the early stages. The event is expected to take place at the Comox Valley Exhibition Grounds and she said there may not be a limit on the number of people allowed to attend.
The province said 32 municipalities, regional districts and First Nations will receive a combined $1.7 million in one-time funding to host community events ranging from single-day soccer-themed gatherings to large multi-day public match-viewing events.
McCollum said the event could lead to an increase in soccer registrations in the Comox Valley. She said the region is preparing for potential growth with plans for a second artificial turf field in the future.
“There’s a real challenge in cities in North America and I think that will probably continue but we may see some prioritization of resources to new field spaces coming out of the FIFA World Cup.”
The grant is being provided to the Comox Valley Regional District, though McCollum said municipalities across the region will work together to organize the event.
