VANCOUVER, BC – As Vancouver Whitecaps FC get set to host their 2026 MLS home opener on Saturday, the club has also confirmed the dates for the club's first three community celebration matches.
Additional celebration and theme matches for the 2026 season will be announced at a later date.Â
Home Opener - February 21 vs. Real Salt Lake
The defending Western Conference champion Whitecaps FC return to BC Place this coming Saturday, February 21 when they host fellow Western Conference side Real Salt Lake. After an incredible 2025 season that saw the 'Caps make a run all the way to MLS Cup, anticipation is high for the Blue & White in 2026.
Cherry Blossom Match - March 14 vs. Minnesota United FC
Cherry Blossoms have a rich history in Vancouver, dating back to the 1930s when the mayors of Kobe and Yokohama gifted 500 trees to honour Japanese-Canadian World War I veterans. Today, there are more than 40,000 cherry blossom trees in Vancouver, with spring signalling the age-old Japanese tradition of flower viewing known as hanami. On March 14, Whitecaps FC will join in this cultural experience with a Cherry Blossom-themed match at BC Place.Â
Vaisakhi Match, presented by MNP - April 4 vs. Portland Timbers
This will be fifth year of the Whitecaps FC Vaisakhi Match, celebrating the amazing South Asian community in Metro Vancouver. Ahead of the annual Vaisakhi parades in Surrey and Vancouver – the biggest in the world outside of India - Whitecaps FC will be recognizing the vibrant occasion that marks the Punjabi New Year and spring harvest.
Indigenous Peoples Match, presented by BMO - April 11 vs. New York City FC
Whitecaps FC are proud to host the club’s sixth annual Indigenous Peoples Match, celebrating the cultures and contributions of Indigenous and First Nations peoples.
For all of the latest news and information on upcoming Whitecaps FC matches, visit whitecapsfc.com.