The FIFA Fan Festival™ kept the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup rolling on June 17, bringing another full day of football, live music, and entertainment to downtown Vancouver. Fans gathered to catch matches including Portugal vs. Congo DR, England vs. Croatia, and Ghana vs. Panama, with plenty happening between kickoffs on the festival’s two live music stages.

The evening belonged to Canadian pop and R&B star Shawn Desman, who delivered one of the day’s standout performances. Taking the Amphitheatre stage, Desman immediately connected with the crowd through his high-energy set. Backed by talented dancers who added plenty of movement and flair to the show, he turned the festival into a massive outdoor party.

The audience was just as much a part of the performance. Fans sang every word back to him, creating a loud chorus that echoed throughout the festival grounds. Whether it was longtime listeners reliving hits or newer fans discovering his music for the first time, the energy stayed high from the first song to the last.

The day wrapped up with Wild Rivers performing on the Park Stage, giving festival-goers another chance to enjoy live Canadian music before heading home.

Check out our favourite photos of the show or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!

SHAWN DESMAN

All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer

The FIFA Fan Festival™ Vancouver kept the celebration of the FIFA World Cup 2026 rolling on June 13, bringing together soccer fans, live music, and a packed day of entertainment in the heart of the city. With matches screening throughout the afternoon and evening, the festival once again transformed PNE into a gathering place for supporters from around the world.

Saturday’s schedule featured three international match broadcasts, beginning with Brazil vs. Morocco (1-1) in the afternoon, followed by Haiti vs. Scotland (0-1) and Australia vs. Türkiye in the evening. Between matches, festivalgoers were treated to live performances across the festival grounds, creating a lively atmosphere that blended sport, culture, and music.

One of the highlights of the day was Vancouver’s own Lazy Syrup Orchestra, who performed two sets on the Amphitheatre Stage. Known for their energetic fusion of Balkan, Latin, funk, and world music influences, the group brought an infectious energy that quickly drew a crowd. Their vibrant performance had fans dancing throughout the set and provided the perfect soundtrack between World Cup action.

We were on site to capture Lazy Syrup Orchestra‘s performances, and the band’s colourful stage presence matched the festival’s upbeat spirit. From families enjoying the afternoon sunshine to dedicated soccer fans gathering ahead of the evening matches, the crowd embraced everything the Fan Festival had to offer.

With live music, international soccer, food vendors, and entertainment throughout the day, June 13 showcased exactly why the FIFA Fan Festival™ is one of Vancouver’s must-visit destinations during the World Cup.

Check out our photos of the day below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!

LAZY SYRUP ORCHESTRA

FIFA FAN FESTIVAL™

All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer