Edmonton to Host 97 World Cup Watch Parties in Ice District
Edmonton soccer fans will have plenty of opportunities to catch World Cup action this summer, as city officials announced on Wednesday that 97 free, all-ages watch parties will be held in and around the Ice District. The joint announcement by Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG), the City of Edmonton, and Explore Edmonton follows Canada's 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan at Commonwealth Stadium, which drew 46,000 fans. This was Canada's second-to-last friendly match before their World Cup campaign begins on June 12.
“It shows that Edmonton is a big event city, not just a hockey city,” said Stu Ballantyne, president and COO of ICE District. “As Canada hosts the World Cup, it’s a unique opportunity to bring people together.”
Ballantyne confirmed that at least 17 matches, including all Team Canada games, will be screened at The Tent in Fan Park. A Canada Day event called Canada Celebrates, funded by the federal government, will also take place at Fan Park.
The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation is partnering with the non-profit Free Play for Kids. Ballantyne noted that the partnership will provide soccer programs and tournament opportunities for young athletes, with over 25,000 kids registered in Edmonton Minor Soccer Association programs. The watch parties will be more family-oriented than typical Oilers playoff events.
Tim Adams, executive director of Free Play for Kids, highlighted the organization’s summer goals: “We’re bringing thousands of kids downtown to the Plaza in Fan Park to play classic street ball, just like we all grew up with.” Adams referenced Alphonso Davies, the Edmonton-born captain of Canada’s national team, as an inspiration for young players. “To see him on the field and think, ‘Hey, that could be me’ – he went to St. Nicholas Soccer Academy near Rundle Park.”
Adams emphasized that these events showcase downtown Edmonton as a family-friendly destination. “We’ll host 700 kids playing street ball in Fan Park. It’s a chance for families to see that downtown is safe and welcoming – maybe they’ll visit the AGA, the Winspear, or City Hall.”
Traci Bednard, president and CEO of Explore Edmonton, called Edmonton “Canada’s number one sports hosting city.” She said the watch parties will support local businesses and create opportunities for residents and visitors to explore the city. “We’re excited to bring that same energy to downtown Edmonton this summer,” she added.
