Canada faces Morocco in Round of 16 with free watch party Saturday at LeBreton Flats
The federal government and City of Ottawa are hosting a family-friendly viewing event at the Bluesfest site starting at 1 p.m. Saturday as Canada plays Morocco in the FIFA World Cup.
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Canada's men's national soccer team will face Morocco in a Round of 16 match Saturday, July 4, with a free public watch party hosted by the federal government and City of Ottawa at the Bluesfest site at LeBreton Flats Park.
The game kicks off at 1 p.m. Saturday. Canadian Heritage says the watch party will be a "vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere" where Ottawans can experience the match and show national pride. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe announced the event Thursday after discussing plans with Prime Minister Carney.
Beyond LeBreton Flats, bars and restaurants across the city are preparing for heavy crowds. Alex Sirois, managing partner of Ottawa Venues, which operates Lowertown Brewery, Sky Lounge, and Barrio in the ByWard Market, said the group has been getting reservations since Canada's June 28 victory over South Africa. He's expecting both Canadian and Moroccan fans and plans to split them between floors at Lowertown Brewery to keep the atmosphere "good-spirited." Atletico Ottawa, the city's professional men's soccer team, is also hosting a watch party at TD Place.
Turnout at Ottawa Venues restaurants and bars has surged since the World Cup began June 11, with lunch crowds swelling as fans gather for midday matches.
