Kraft Hockeyville’s 20th Anniversary Opens Bigger Prizes for Local Rinks
Nominations for the 20th anniversary of Kraft Hockeyville are now open. Canadians can put forward their local rinks until March 1, 2026, for a chance to win major upgrades and prizes. This year’s programme features a bigger prize pool and an expanded format to celebrate two decades of community support.
The 2026 edition introduces a new structure, recognising one Provincial & Territorial Winner from each of Canada’s 13 regions. Each of these winners will receive $50,000 for rink improvements, except the top two finalists. The runner-up community will get $100,000, while the champion takes home $250,000 and the right to host an NHL® Pre-Season game.
After nominations close on March 1, a judging panel will review entries. Winners will be announced on March 14, 2026, with the overall champion revealed on April 4, 2026. Nominations can be submitted at KraftHockeyville.ca by answering three simple questions. NHL legends Marc-André Fleury and Paul Bissonnette are serving as ambassadors for this year’s programme. Additionally, NHLPA Goals & Dreams will donate $50,000 worth of new hockey equipment to support Canadian communities. Over the past 20 years, Kraft Hockeyville has already awarded $5.4 million to 105 communities across the country.
The expanded 2026 programme offers more communities a chance to benefit from rink upgrades and funding. With nominations open until March 1, local rinks have until then to enter for a share of the prizes. The winning community will also gain the honour of hosting an NHL® Pre-Season match.
