Soccer fans in Niagara will get a front-row seat to the final matches of the FIFA World Cup this weekend, as Niagara Parks brings its Canada Celebrates tour to the Queen Victoria Park Event Field in Niagara Falls.

The free event runs Saturday, July 18 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, July 19 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., according to a Niagara Parks public notice. It is one of the final stops on the Canada Celebrates national tour being held during the tournament.

What's on at the event field

The celebration features a giant viewing screen so fans can watch the matches live. The Bronze Match kicks off at 5 p.m. on Saturday, while the Silver/Gold Match is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Beyond the soccer broadcasts, the park will offer themed family-friendly activities, live entertainment, interactive photo opportunities and a range of food and beverage options for locals and visitors alike.

Traffic and transit changes to plan around

Motorists should brace for temporary traffic impacts in the area. Lane reductions will be in effect in Queen Victoria Park beginning Friday, July 17, and continuing through Monday, July 20, according to the notice.

The westbound lane of Murray Street will be closed for the duration, though the eastbound lane will remain open. Niagara Parks says all closures are subject to change at the discretion of police to ensure public safety.

WEGO bus service will keep running through the weekend, and guests are being encouraged to use transit where possible.

For those driving, parking will be available at the Rapidsview Parking Lot, with a complimentary shuttle service running to and from the event site.

Air quality being monitored

Niagara Parks says it is continuing to monitor current air quality conditions, and event details may change if conditions warrant. Guests are being encouraged to check the Niagara Parks website for the latest updates before heading out.

Full details on the closures and ongoing projects are posted on the Niagara Parks Repairs and Maintenance webpage.

Questions about the event can be directed to Katy Wassenaar, senior manager of public affairs with Niagara Parks, at 905-356-2241 ext. 2224.