Kamloops is getting in on the world’s biggest sporting event in a big way. Starting June 11, all 104 FIFA World Cup™ matches will be shown on a large screen at the Rotary Bandshell in Riverside Park, giving fans a free, community-centred place to watch the action from the group stage through to the final on July 19.
The Riverside Park Watch Parties are a collaboration between the City of Kamloops, Tourism Kamloops, Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc, Downtown Kamloops, the Kamloops Sports Council, and the Kamloops United Football Club.
“Building on the energy gathering in our province, in Canada, on our continent, and throughout the world, we are so excited to bring the community together to cheer on their team at Riverside Park! I’m especially looking forward to the community activation days where entertainment and activities will bolster the watch parties even further, making for truly memorable connections for Kamloops residents,” said Dušan Magdolen, the City’s Cultural Services and Events Manager.
“Big Moments are even better when they’re shared, and Riverside Park is set to become the ultimate gathering place for fans this summer. From the excitement on the big screen to the energy throughout the park, these watch parties will showcase the welcoming spirit and vibrant atmosphere that make Kamloops a great place to visit and explore. We can’t wait to see the community and visitors come together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories,” said Erik Fisher, Tourism Kamloops’ Chief Executive Officer.
During the tournament, four Community Activation Days will bring elevated programming to Riverside Park, with a beer garden, food trucks, football-themed activities, giveaways, live music, and family-friendly fun. Mark your calendars for June 12, June 24, and July 19, with a bonus activation date landing between June 28 and July 2, depending on whether Canada advances and what day they will play.
Live music performers scheduled for Community Activation Days include:
- Shattered Blue, June 12 at 4:00 pm
- March Hare, June 24 at 5:00 pm
- Velvet Groove, one of the following days: June 28, June 29, or July 2 (time to be determined)
- Serious Dogs, July 19 at 2:30 pm
On June 18, Kamloops will also be part of Canada Celebrates the FIFA World Cup 2026™, a first-of-its-kind national program that will unite communities across the tournament co-host country and carry the energy, pride, and passion that are synonymous with the world’s biggest sporting event. Fans can expect live match viewings on large screens, cultural and music performances, interactive football-themed zones, family-friendly activities, and local food and community programming.
All Community Activation Days will include a beer garden, and all other match viewing dates will operate under the Responsible Liquor Consumption program. Food trucks will be on site on non-activated days, with schedules subject to change.
For the full schedule and more information, visit the Tourism Kamloops Watch Parties web page.
