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Planning ahead during a busy sporting season

What Holland Bloorview families and staff need to know as FIFA World Cup™ matches kick-off in Toronto

From June 12 to July 2, 2026, Toronto will host six FIFA World Cup™ matches, alongside a city-wide fan festival running through July. It’s an exciting moment for the city and may also bring significant impacts to travel, traffic and access—particularly in the downtown core. 

For visitors to Holland Bloorview during this time, including clients and families, advance planning will go a long way in helping ensure a safe and on-time arrival for any appointments. 

The City of Toronto is taking a “transit-first” approach, with increased TTC and GO Transit services and coordinated planning across transportation, police and emergency services to help keep people moving safely. 

Tips for planning your visit to Holland Bloorview

Whether you’re a client, family member or staff, these tips can help you prepare:

Plan ahead and give yourself extra time

  • Allow extra travel time—especially on match days (June 12, 17, 20, 23, 26 and July 2)
  • Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early for appointments in case of delays

 

Consider alternative travel options

  • Use public transit, including Wheel-Trans, where possible 
  • Check TTC and GO Transit schedules before heading out
  • If driving, anticipate detours and congestion

 

Plan for accessibility needs

  • If you require accessible transportation, allow additional time to coordinate
  • Confirm arrangements (e.g., Wheel-Trans) ahead of your visit

 

 Driving and parking considerations

  • Watch for temporary road closures, lane restrictions and parking bans throughout the city 
  • Be aware that some areas will allow local traffic only at certain times
  • Plan your route in advance and have a backup option

 

We’re here to help

We understand that travel disruptions can be challenging—especially when navigating care. If you have questions about getting to your appointment, please connect with your care team in advance. 

You can also stay informed in real time by monitoring City of Toronto, TTC and traffic updates for live alerts and changes. 

For the latest City of Toronto updates, visit:

 

Holland Bloorview’s role during FIFA World Cup™ matches in Toronto

 

Holland Bloorview staff take part in "Operation Red Card"
Holland Bloorview staff take part in "Operation Red Card"

 

Holland Bloorview is also proud to play a role in the larger health care system to support emergency preparedness for one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

Large-scale events including FIFA World Cup™ bring increased demand on health and emergency services. Across Toronto, hospitals, public health and emergency responders are working together through coordinated planning, real-time monitoring and emergency management systems to ensure care remains available for those who need it. 

At Holland Bloorview, we are:

  • Coordinating with system partners to support continuity of care
  • Monitoring potential impacts on access and operations, which is expected to be minimal 
  • Ensuring our teams are prepared to support clients and families safely

 

Client, family and staff safety remain our top priority, and with some extra planning, we look forward to welcoming you safely during this exciting time for our city.

By Erin Pooley