The Vancouver Whitecaps have an unusual matchup this weekend.
The Major League Soccer team will be facing off with Wrexham AFC, a Welsh team currently playing in League 1 of the English Football League.
On paper, the friendly game seems a bit odd, but it makes sense when you remember Vancouver native Ryan Reynolds is one of the co-owners of Wrexham. The team have become worldwide stars thanks to a documentary TV series tracking their successes (and failures) since Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took over in 2021.
Wrexham are currently touring North America and playing a handful of games here.
While the game won't mean much to either team when it comes to league or cup play, it'll be a point of honour for both, especially as BC Place has opened the top level of the stadium up to fans.
“I am so excited my hometown club the Whitecaps will get to square off against the Red Dragons. My official stance on the match will be a very friendly 'neutral' even if I will be screaming for a Paul Mullin hat trick,” says Reynolds in a press release issued in April.
Unfortunately, the star Wrexham striker had spinal surgery recently and won't be playing.
Here's what to know if you're planning on, or thinking about, going to the game.
Gates and kickoff
It's an early game. Kickoff is at 4:30 p.m. with gates opening at 3 p.m.
For those keen to get started, the Terry Fox Plaza will open up at 1 p.m.
Tickets
Lots of tickets are still available; BC Place opened up seats on the upper level, adding thousands of seats to the game. While much of the lower bowl has sold, many of the seats in the upper area are available, and for a lot less than in the lower bowl.
The cheap seats are going for $58.60 in the 400-level.
On the other end of the spectrum, there are fieldside seats available for just north of $300.
Getting there
While TransLink hasn't yet announced any extra transit services specifically for the game, Saturday, July 27 is the last night of the Celebration of Light and therefore there will be an increase in service on some lines.
However, those changes mostly affect people travelling in and out of the West End, and not to and from BC Place, although SkyTrain service will be increased later in the day.
Chris Brown will also be performing that night, at neighbouring Rogers Arena, which will mean increased congestion in the area around the time the soccer game ends.
Hullo will have a late-night sailing on July 27, which leaves the seaplane dock near the Vancouver Convention Centre at 11:55 p.m.
Things to know about BC Place
It's a cashless venue
BC Place is a cashless venue, which means all food, drinks, and merch bought once you're inside the stadium will need a credit or debit card for purchases.
If you do have physical money, you can load it onto a card on Level 1 near the food court, on Level 2 in section 235, and on Level 4 in section 446.
Along with common sense items (as in, don't bring weapons, fireworks or illegal drugs) BC Place also prohibits vuvuzelas and cowbells (other noisemakers are allowed, but must be used respectfully).
There are also no drones, laser pointers, balloons, or signs of a political or religious nature.
BC Place has a strict bag policy and encourages people to not bring bags of any type unless it is a:
- Clutch purse or belt bag no larger than 6.5 by 8.5 inches
- Clear plastic bags (including clear plastic freezer bags) no larger than 12 by 12 by 6 inches
A bag check is available for $10 per piece. Diaper bags and medically necessary items that cannot fit into a clear bag may be accepted.
