The Comox Valley Regional District is inviting the community to a free, family-friendly FIFA World Cup watch party next month at the Exhibition Grounds.

The Comox Valley Kick Off event is set for Friday, June 12th from 11:30 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Supported through provincial grant funding, the event will celebrate the FIFA World Cup with live match screenings, local entertainment, food vendors, and activities for all ages.

A large outdoor screen will broadcast both Team Canada’s and Team USA’s opening matches, with Canada taking on Bosnia and Herzegovina at noon, followed by the U.S. facing Paraguay at 6 p.m.

Organizers say the day will also include family-friendly recreation such as skills competitions and bouncy castles, along with live music and entertainment between matches.

The event is designed to bring the community together through sport, while celebrating diversity, inclusion, and connection.

CVRD Senior Manager of Recreation Services Jennifer Zbinden says the World Cup offers a unique opportunity to unite people across cultures and generations, and the district is proud to support an event focused on community and belonging.

For details, visit City of Courtenay.