FIFA has unveiled the route for Canada Celebrates the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Fort St. John set to host one of the tour’s northern stops as the tournament’s fan experience travels across the country.
The northeast B.C. city is scheduled to host events June 11-12, bringing live match viewings, football-themed activities, cultural programming, music and food to the community as part of the national celebration tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Canada Celebrates program is designed to extend the reach of the tournament beyond the host cities of Toronto and Vancouver, with 38 stops planned across 34 communities. FIFA said the tour will come within a two-hour drive of more than 75 per cent of Canadians.
With support from the federal government, municipalities and corporate partners, the program aims to create accessible fan experiences in communities across the country, including smaller and more remote centres such as Fort St. John.
FIFA commercial partners Coca-Cola, Kia, Michelob Ultra, Hisense, McDonald’s and The Home Depot, along with media partner Bell Media, are supporting the initiative.
“As a Canadian, it’s incredibly meaningful to bring a taste of the FIFA World Cup 2026 to communities across the country and ensure Canadian residents can be part of this historic moment. We’re proud to work alongside such passionate partners to deliver experiences that reflect a shared pride and love of football, across Canada,” said Vittorio Montagliani, FIFA vice-president and Concacaf president.
“Beyond hosting matches in Toronto and Vancouver, this FIFA World Cup will create a legacy for football in this country — inspiring the next generation and growing the game for years to come. We look forward to visiting all 34 communities as part of this global celebration.”
“This summer, Canada Celebrates will bring the energy and excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 to communities across the country. Sport has the power to bring people together, and this tour will help Canadians feel a part of this historic moment,” said Adam van Koeverden, secretary of state for sport and Canada’s FIFA sherpa.
Fort St. John’s inclusion highlights the effort to bring World Cup-related programming to regions outside major urban centres, offering residents a chance to take part in the event without travelling to host cities.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 runs from June 11 to July 19, with Canada co-hosting alongside the United States and Mexico. The expanded tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 host cities.
