Waterloo Region prepares to celebrate World Cup
Posted May 22, 2026 02:14:48 PM.
Last Updated May 27, 2026 12:50:03 PM.
While sports fans in Waterloo Region are all tuned into this Kitchener Rangers run in the Memorial Cup right now, in a few short weeks, the attention will turn over to the World Cup.
Canada will host the tournament for the first time, and that’s set to bring attention to Waterloo Region, with Team Canada matches being played just down the highway at BMO Field in Toronto.
“We are lucky enough that Waterloo Region is one of the host communities for the Canada Celebrates country-wide celebration,” said Ashley Lansink, director of marketing for Explore Waterloo Region.
The local Canada Celebrates event takes place at Carl Zehr Square on July 11. The family-friendly event is free to attend and will bring a watch party and surrounding events to downtown Kitchener.
“We are really excited about the potential opportunity that having the match about an hour outside of Waterloo Region offers,” added Lansink.
The Downtown Kitchener BIA will be streaming more than 100 games in downtown Kitchener from June 11 to July 19. The Gaslight District will be hosting similar screenings daily.
“There are a lot of great ways to take in the action right here in Waterloo Region,” said Lansink.
Arnold Yescas, Arts and Culture Manager for the Downtown Kitchener told The Mike Farwell Show that the logistics of the watch party should help add to the big-game feel at Kitchener Market.
“We’re bringing in a 21-foot screen which will be placed on the Piatta” said Yescas. “Whichever team you are supporting, there will be a screen there and some live broadcasting for you to come and enjoy.”
Yescas reiterates that creating an environment that encourages public engagement and celebration is a core part of the World Cup viewing experience.
“The atmosphere is super important, that’s why we wanted to have a big screen. We find that adds to the atmosphere and just having people around you whether they’re cheering for the same team or the opposing team, it still adds to the environment and just the overall experience. So we’re really excited to bring that.”
Canada’s first match takes place on June 12 at 3 p.m. at BMO Field against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Kitchener Market’s watch party will feature pre-game celebrations for the opening contest, beginning at 1 p.m.
Six matches will be played in Toronto between June 12 and July 2.
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