The City of Richmond says it is marking the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a six-week series of free public events aimed at bringing the community together.

In partnership with Tourism Richmond and the Richmond Hotel Association, the city announced “Richmond Celebrates Soccer,” a program featuring watch parties and cultural events beginning June 12.

Mayor Malcolm Brodie said the initiative is intended to create accessible spaces for residents to take part in the global tournament while highlighting the city’s diversity.

The opening World Soccer Day Kick-Off Event will be held at the Richmond Olympic Oval and will include a public barbecue, live music and soccer activities, along with a viewing of Canada’s opening match.

Organizers say the program will run for six weeks, culminating in a closing event on July 19 at Aberdeen Neighbourhood Park, where the tournament final will be shown alongside live performances and family-oriented programming.

Tourism Richmond CEO Nancy Small said the initiative is an opportunity to showcase the city as a destination for cultural and sport tourism, while encouraging both visitors and residents to take part in local events.

B.C. Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport Minister Anne Kang said the province is supporting efforts to help communities participate in the World Cup experience, calling it the world’s largest single-sport event.

Organizers say all events in the Richmond Celebrates Soccer program will be free and open to the public.