George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
The FIFA World Cup is the world’s largest sporting event, bringing together 48 national teams and millions of fans from around the globe. In 2026, Canada, the United States, and Mexico will co-host the tournament, with Toronto serving as one of 16 official Host Cities.
Toronto will host six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) at Exhibition Place, including Canada’s opening match on June 12 and a Round of 32 knockout match on July 2.
Whether you're a lifelong soccer fan, a newcomer to the sport, or simply looking to experience the energy of a global celebration, FIFA World Cup 2026 will transform Toronto's waterfront and bring the world to our city. George Brown students and employees will have a front-row seat to one of the most significant sporting and cultural events ever hosted in Canada.
Public events and fan experiences
In addition to the matches themselves, the FIFA World Cup will bring a wide range of free and ticketed events to Toronto, offering opportunities for residents and visitors to celebrate the tournament and experience the city's vibrant culture.
FIFA Fan Festival
The FIFA Fan Festival at Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway will be the centerpiece of Toronto's public celebrations. Open throughout the tournament, the festival will feature:
Live broadcasts of FIFA World Cup matches on large screens
Musical performances and entertainment
Interactive soccer activities and games
Food and beverage vendors representing Toronto's diverse communities
Family-friendly programming and cultural celebrations
Admission to the Fan Festival will be free, making it one of the most accessible ways to experience the excitement of the World Cup.
Pride House Toronto 2026 at George Brown Waterfront Campus
George Brown Polytechnic’s Waterfront Campus will proudly host Pride House Toronto 2026, a welcoming and inclusive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ fans, athletes, students, employees, visitors, and allies throughout the FIFA World Cup.
Running from June 11 to July 19, Pride House Toronto will feature community programming, match-viewing opportunities, cultural events, educational activities, and celebrations that promote inclusion, diversity, and belonging in sport.
As Toronto’s official Pride House during FIFA World Cup 2026, the initiative reflects George Brown’s commitment to creating welcoming spaces where everyone can participate in the excitement of this historic global event.
Getting around during FIFA
With large crowds expected across the city, particularly around Exhibition Place, Fort York, Union Station, and Toronto’s waterfront, students and employees are encouraged to plan ahead for a busy commute and use public transit whenever possible.
During the FIFA World Cup 2026, there will be various road closures and restrictions implemented in the downtown core, specifically in the Liberty Village and Fort York areas as well as around Toronto Stadium (at Exhibition Place). As a result, roads and some transit routes are expected to be busier than usual. We encourage you to take a moment to see how your usual travel routes may be impacted and plan ahead. Maps are available online at https://torontofwc26.ca.
Transit agencies are expected to provide additional service throughout the tournament, but advise travellers to allow extra travel time on match days.
Transit information:
TTC: https://www.ttc.ca
GO Transit: https://www.gotransit.com
FIFA Toronto transportation updates: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/fifa-world-cup-26/
Important note for the George Brown community
Students and employees travelling to or from the Waterfront Campus should expect increased activity and heavier transit volumes on Toronto match days:
June 12
June 17
June 20
June 23
June 26
July 2
Additional crowds are also expected throughout the duration of the FIFA Fan Festival, particularly on weekends and during high-profile matches.
Where feasible, on game days, some classes and services may be moved online. Students should continue as scheduled unless told otherwise by their professor. The Spring/Summer Intersession Week takes place June 22 to 26.
For more detailed information, including maps and event information, please see the City of Toronto’s FIFA business guide.