FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver delivers outstanding atmosphere on opening day
I had many questions about Vancouver’s FIFA Fan Festival heading into opening day.
On Thursday, many of them were answered.
Slow ticket sales may not have concerned organizers, at least not publicly, but I did wonder how it would affect the atmosphere at the outdoor watch parties at Hastings Park.
I also wondered how many people would attend on a weekday afternoon.
Well, Vancouver showed up.
Crowds flocked to the PNE fairgrounds, with fans lining up on Renfrew Street before gates opened at 10 a.m.
The new PNE Amphitheatre is a beautiful venue. (Kenneth Chan/Daily Hive)
While the seated area was sparsely filled, a huge contingent of fans wearing green Mexico jerseys packed the Amphitheatre floor. It made for an incredible atmosphere.
The crowd roared on numerous occasions during Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa.
View this post on Instagram
The viewing party at the Park Stage, which is entirely free, was also very well attended.
Rob Williams/Daily Hive
It’s a great start for the festival, which will be open for 28 days during the FIFA World Cup.
Expect the crowds to grow with Canada playing on Friday afternoon, and as we get into the weekend.