Toronto's FIFA World Cup Fan Fest: Mostly Free After Mayor's Intervention

0:00It's April 22nd. This is Canada News today, AI-powered stories from your city, on Quarry with a story. Toronto's FIFA World Cup Fan Fest is set to be mostly free after Mayor Olivia Chow stepped in to override a surprise fee plan from city staff. The event runs 22 days from June 11th to July 19th at Fort York and the Benway, tying into the six matches Toronto is hosting across North America. Staff at pitch charging $10 for general admission, plus VIP options from $100 to $300, blaming crowd control needs, and $9 million in extra costs for new activities and upgrades beyond the original $16 million contract. That idea clashed with promises to make the fest accessible for folks priced out of match tickets that run thousands of dollars sparking pushback from counselors who wanted it open to everyone. Now staff's revised report, heading to council, offers nearly 80% of the 20,000 daily spots

1:00as free general admission with a reservation system to handle crowds and paid VIP packages still on deck. Chow and supporters like Councillor Josh Matlow are on board, ensuring broadcasts, live shows, art, and local eats stay inclusive for the city's big. Soccer Moment