Blog
Your Summer of Soccer Guide to Vancouver and UBC
World Cup in Vancouver & UBC
The countdown is over! Vancouver is transforming into a vibrant, electric hub for the FIFA World Cup 2026, bringing an unforgettable “Summer of Soccer” to our beautiful coastal city. From the roaring crowds downtown to the soccer energy rolling across campus, the city will be buzzing with live matches at BC Place and massive fan celebrations across the city.
Whether you are a die-hard football fan or just here to soak up Vancouver’s summer sights, our teams at West Coast Suites, Gage Suites, and Pacific Spirit Hostel are fully prepped and ready to welcome you!
Official Event Calendar & Vancouver Events
To ensure you don’t miss a single kickoff or soccer themed Vancouver event, head straight to the Official Destination Vancouver FIFA World Cup Hub.
Where to Watch
If you don’t have tickets to BC Place, don’t worry, Vancouver is packing the summer with viewing spots. Here are the top spots our team recommends checking out:
| Fan Zone Location | What to Expect | Cost |
| FIFA Fan Festival at Hastings Park (PNE) | The ultimate, official watch party. Huge giant screens at the newly built PNE Amphitheatre, live music, 120+ artist performances, and international food stalls. Website: FIFA Fan Festival | Free General Admission |
| Granville Island Watch Parties | A stunning waterfront public viewing zone screening 92 of the 104 matches on a giant screen nestled right under the bridge. Seating for up to 1,000 fans. Website: Granville Island Watch Party – Granville Island – Vancouver, BC | Free |
| UBC Soccer in the Square | You don’t even have to leave the university grounds! Website: Soccer in the Square – Live At UBC | Free |
Getting from UBC Campus to Downtown Vancouver
Navigating your way from campus to the stadium or downtown fan zones is incredibly straightforward. Because of match-day traffic and road closures around the stadium area, we highly recommend taking public transit over driving or ride-sharing.
1. Head to the UBC Bus Exchange: 5-10 minute walk.
Walk over to the main UBC Bus Exchange located right next to West Coast Suites and a short stroll from Gage Suites and Pacific Spirit Hostel.
2. Hop on the R4 RapidBus or #14 / #4 / #44 Bus: 20-25 minute transit ride.
- Option A (Fastest to SkyTrain): Take the R4 RapidBus eastbound straight to Oakridge-41st Station, then jump onto the Canada Line SkyTrain heading North directly into downtown.
- Option B (Direct Downtown Bus): Hop on the #14, #4, or #44 bus for a ride into the heart of the downtown core.
Follow us on Instagram!
- West Coast Suites: @westcoastsuites
- Gage Suites: @gagesuites
- Pacific Spirit Hostel: @pacificspirithostel
