FIFA Fan Festival kicks off today at Fort York
Live World Cup matches, performances by Wyclef Jean and Walk Off the Earth, plus 39 days of food, drinks and fan experiences.
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Toronto's FIFA Fan Festival officially launches today at Fort York and The Bentway, offering live World Cup match screenings, entertainment, food, drinks and interactive fan experiences throughout the tournament.
Gates open at 12:30 p.m. with festivities running until 7:30 p.m. today. Fans will watch Mexico vs. South Africa at 3 p.m. on a giant screen while enjoying live entertainment, activations and food and beverage vendors.
The entertainment lineup kicks off strong. Wyclef Jean and AHI take the main stage from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., wrapping up just before kickoff. Later in the evening, Canadian band Walk Off the Earth performs from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
General admission tickets for opening day have already sold out. However, premium ticket options remain available, ranging from $100 to $300, sold through Ticketmaster.
The festival runs for 39 days through July 19. Festival organizers are encouraging attendees to take public transit. TTC Line 1 riders should exit at Union Station and transfer to the 509 Harbourfront streetcar, getting off at Fleet Hub on Fleet Street between Strachan Avenue and Fort York Boulevard. Line 2 riders can exit at Bathurst Station and take the 511 Bathurst streetcar.
Throughout the tournament, several artists will play daily at the FIFA Fan Festivals in both Canadian host cities — Toronto will see artists including Alessia Cara, Murda Beatz and French Montana.