Vancouver Bars Buzzing Ahead of Saturday’s Big Match
As excitement builds for Saturday’s game, Tostenson predicts it will be an unforgettable event. Many bars and restaurants in the city plan to open early, around 9 a.m., ahead of the 10 a.m. kickoff.
Jane Talbot, CEO of the Downtown Business Improvement Association, shares the positive vibe in Vancouver’s downtown area. She believes Canada’s impressive performance in the tournament has fueled this excitement. “The atmosphere is electric every time Canada plays, whether they’re home or away,” she explains.
Talbot’s team manages the five-block Granville Street pedestrian zone, where local bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants are seeing a surge in customers. While many businesses are thriving, she notes that experiences can vary from place to place. “Our pubs, restaurants, and clubs are bustling with record-breaking sales,” Talbot says. “However, not every business is seeing the same level of success.”
One bright side is the increase in foot traffic. Talbot mentions that even if some businesses aren’t as busy, the more people come through the area, the better the chance they’ll return to explore the shops they enjoy.
As the tournament moves into the knockout rounds, Talbot anticipates a slight dip in business as fewer games are played each day. “We don’t expect to see the same crowds as we did in the first two weeks, but we believe the area will continue to be a lively and exciting spot,” she adds.
This article was originally published on July 1, 2026, by Brieanna Charlebois for The Canadian Press.
