via the Comox Valley Regional District
The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is pleased to announce the Comox Valley Kick Off – a free, family-friendly celebration and community soccer watch party, taking place on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the CVRD Exhibition Grounds (Rotary Bowl).
Supported through a Province of British Columbia grant program, the event will bring the community together to celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026™ through live match viewing, local entertainment, food vendors, and inclusive community activities.
The event will feature live broadcasts of both Team Canada’s and Team USA’s opening FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches on a large outdoor screen, creating a vibrant festival-style atmosphere for residents and visitors of all ages.
Programming throughout the day will include:
- Opening ceremony and community welcome
- Live FIFA World Cup match viewing
- 12:00 noon Team Canada v Bosnia and Herzegovina
- 6:00 pm USA v Paraguay
- Accessible public viewing areas and amenities
- Family-friendly recreation and community activities throughout the entire day – skills competitions, bouncy castles and more!
- Local live music and entertainment between matches
- Food trucks and vendors
The event is designed to create a welcoming and inclusive space that celebrates community connection, diversity, and shared experiences through sport.
“This event is an exciting opportunity to bring our community together in a positive and inclusive way,” said Jennifer Zbinden, Senior Manager of Recreation Services. “The World Cup creates a sense of connection that reaches across cultures and generations, and we’re proud to support an event that celebrates community, recreation, and belonging here in the Comox Valley.”
Planning for the event is currently underway in collaboration with community partners, the municipalities, and public safety agencies. A comprehensive safety and accessibility plan will support event operations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees.
Additional event details, schedules, and community participation opportunities will be shared as we get closer to Kick Off day!
For more information, visit: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/watchparty.
The Comox Valley Regional District is a partnership of three electoral areas and three municipalities operating on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of the land. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on providing sustainable services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.