Welcome to the Pond Hockey World Championship. In Canada, where hockey is a religion, the world’s largest pond hockey tournament makes the village of Plaster Rock a holy site, worthy of a Bucket List pilgrimage. 120 teams from around the planet compete during the 4-day event, playing hockey in its purest form – outside, on ice, surrounded by true fans of the game. It’s four-on-four play with no goalies or age categories on the 20 rinks built onto the frozen Roulstan Lake. It might get competitive on the ice, but the festivities continue long after the final whistle in this friendly Maritime celebration.
Length of Trip : 4 days
Cost : 120 teams compete during the event, but organizers receive over 800 applications from around the world. Click here for registration requirements and fees.
Best time to go : The event takes place each February.
Wheelchair friendly : No
Family friendly : Yes. Teams of all ages compete against each other with no age categories.
Where to eat : Dayna’s Country Kitchen Bistro 221 Plaster Rock Comfort Grill Deano’s Diner Settlers Inn and Motel
Official Site : World Pond Hockey Website
Where to Stay : Click here for a full list of accommodation options in Plaster Rock, including inns, hotels, motels and B&B’s.
Getting There : Plaster Rock is a 2 and half hour drive from Fredericton, or a 3 and half hour drive fro Saint John, both served by regular domestic flights.