Province unveils Ontario Campus at Toronto fan festival ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026™
TORONTO — The Ontario government has launched a large-scale interactive attraction at the FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto as the province prepares to welcome international visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
The newly introduced Ontario Campus, located at Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway, is designed as a community activation zone aimed at promoting Ontario’s tourism destinations, cultural attractions and economic strengths during the global football tournament.
The initiative brings together programming from several Official Toronto World Cup Host City Supporters, including Humber Polytechnic, OPG, OLG and Toronto FC, alongside representation from AFC Toronto.
“We are ready for an unforgettable summer of sport in our province, anchored by the FIFA World Cup 2026™,” said Neil Lumsden, Ontario’s Minister of Sport. “The Ontario Campus and Ontario Pitch will give residents and visitors a chance to experience the very best of our province while highlighting Ontario’s strength as a premier destination for major sporting events.”
At the centre of the activation is the Ontario Pitch, an interactive soccer and mini-golf attraction inspired by some of Ontario’s best-known destinations, including Niagara Falls, cottage country and the province’s network of parks. Festival visitors will also be able to explore exhibits focused on local communities, tourism offerings and cultural experiences across Ontario.
Government positions tournament as major tourism and economic opportunity
Provincial officials say the FIFA World Cup 2026™ presents a significant opportunity to expand tourism activity, attract investment and support local businesses throughout Ontario.
“This summer, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ brings us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to introduce visitors from around the world to Ontario’s magic,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “From iconic attractions and cultural experiences to our vibrant communities and natural beauty, Ontario has so much to offer.”
Ontario estimates that hosting tournament activities in Toronto will support more than 8,700 jobs and generate over $1.3 billion in economic activity across the province.
The province has also invested heavily in infrastructure tied to the tournament, including $20 million toward the construction of the Centennial Park sport training facility. The site will serve as an official FIFA training venue before becoming a permanent community recreation facility after the tournament.
Ontario is additionally extending alcohol service hours for licensed restaurants and bars until 4 a.m. from June 11 through July 19 in an effort to support hospitality businesses and accommodate increased tourism activity.
“As Ontario prepares to welcome fans from around the globe for this world-class sporting event, we are continuing to advance a strong plan to showcase the very best of our province,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “It’s another way we are supporting local businesses, strengthening our hospitality sector and delivering a vibrant, world-class experience for residents and visitors alike.”
Ontario Day celebrations to feature Canadian artists and cultural programming
A major highlight of the festival programming will take place on June 20, when the province and the City of Toronto host Ontario Day during the FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto.
The celebration coincides with the FIFA World Cup 2026™ match between Germany and Côte d’Ivoire at Toronto Stadium and will feature live performances from Canadian artists Aqyila, DJ Skratch Bastid and k-os, alongside cultural exhibitions and interactive programming reflecting Ontario’s diversity.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said the event will serve as both a cultural showcase and an economic opportunity for the city.
“Toronto is proud to welcome the world to the Ontario Campus at FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto,” Chow said. “This is about more than soccer. It is about bringing people together, supporting local businesses, and providing a free and inclusive space where everyone can take part in this historic moment.”
Destination Ontario President and CEO Vincenza Ronaldi said the province’s tourism industry stands to benefit substantially from the international exposure generated by the tournament.
“The Ontario Campus will give fans a fun and memorable introduction to the destinations and experiences that make our province unique,” Ronaldi said. “We know that tourism is a powerful economic driver, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and generating benefits for communities.”
Transit expansions planned as visitor numbers surge
With the tournament expected to add roughly 500,000 transit riders across the region, Ontario and Metrolinx are increasing transportation services to support fan movement throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
Beginning June 10, GO Transit service along the Lakeshore East and Lakeshore West corridors will run every 15 minutes for much of the day. Nearly 3,000 weekly GO trips are expected to operate during the tournament period.
“With FIFA World Cup 2026™ set to kick off, Toronto will soon be on the world stage as thousands of visitors travel into the city to catch a game,” said Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria. “Our government is increasing GO Transit and UP Express service to keep people moving quickly and safely.”
Corporate and institutional partners involved in the Ontario Campus also emphasized the broader economic and educational opportunities linked to the tournament.
Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, said Humber Polytechnic students have played a key role in developing parts of the fan experience.
Meanwhile, Ontario Power Generation and Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation are using the event to promote public engagement through interactive exhibits tied to energy education and sports-themed entertainment.
Ontario remains Canada’s most-visited province, recording 133 million visits in 2024, generating $34 billion in economic activity and supporting more than 311,000 jobs, according to provincial data.