World Cup kicks off in Vancouver. Here's what you need to know

Saturday marks Vancouver's first FIFA World Cup 2026 game, where Australia will face off against Turkey at B.C. Place.

"I feel giddy," said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim to The Early Edition's Stephen Quinn on Thursday.

Here's what you need to know about watching the game, taking part in festivities and getting around over the next month and a half.

Organizers strongly recommend walking, biking, rolling or taking public transit downtown during the FIFA World Cup.

A number of road closures are in place in Vancouver's downtown core throughout the next two months, with additional closures on game days.

A five-block stretch of Granville Street between Davie Street and West Georgia Street is now a pedestrian zone, closed to traffic until late July.

During this time, buses and vehicle traffic are being rerouted to Howe Street and Seymour Street.

Pacific Boulevard between the Cambie Bridge and Carrall Street will also be closed for the duration of the tournament, as it will be home to a spectator route for those travelling from the SkyTrain to B.C. Place.

Those attending games are being asked to get off the SkyTrain at the Main Street Science World station.

Final preparations underway ahead of FIFA World Cup

Several other streets surrounding the stadium are also closed on game days, starting Saturday, including stretches of Expo Boulevard, Quebec Street, Beatty Street and Keefer Street.

You can find more information about road closures here. 

TransLink has added two extra temporary bus routes for the duration of the tournament, one that loops downtown and one that shuttles people between the SkyTrain and the Fan Festival at the PNE.

The official FIFA Fan Festival will be held on game days at the newly opened PNE amphitheatre, with