The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off Thursday and fans of the “the beautiful game” will be cheering on their favourite teams at various venues across Waterloo Region. Here’s a few of the places where you can watch the 104 matches between June 11 and July 19. Public Spaces Cambridge’s Gaslight District will show matches on its outdoor screen, rain or shine, throughout the tournament. The outdoor piazza at the Kitchener Market is being turned into “Soccer Central.” The city has called it the largest free watch party in Waterloo Region, with a big screen, food vendors and entertainment. On June 12, fans will gather at Market Square in Guelph for Canada’s opening game. Restaurants, pubs and bars Ontario has extended the sale and service of alcohol to help support local businesses during the tournament, which means fans can stay later at restaurants, pubs and bars. Last call is now 4 a.m., instead of the normal 2 a.m. Hop House – Matches will be shown on all 39 days of the tournament, while also having game-day specials, prizes, a bracket challenge, and a “Kids Eat Free” program running Sunday through Wednesday. Bobby O’Brien’s – Matches will be shown on the restaurant’s big screen on the patio. Edelweiss Tavern – All 104 games will be shown on screens around the restaurant, while the Kitchener Soccer Club hosts the official watch parties for Canada’s group stages. Concordia Club, Abe Erb and The Rabbid Fox are just a few restaurants showing matches around the clock. Family-friendly options Fans can watch select games at Galaxy Cineplex in Guelph. The Waterloo Public Library will also be showing select games throughout the tournament. Maxwell’s Concerts and Events has organized a ticketed all-ages watch party for Canada’s opening game on June 12. Canada Celebrates on July 11 is a free, family-friendly watch party at Carl Zehr Square in downtown Kitchener. It’s one of 38 FIFA-hosted events across the country. There will be World Cup-themed activities, music, food and other programming.
