Play On! is taking over downtown Calgary this month, turning 10 city blocks into a massive street hockey tournament. For three days, the streets will be filled with temporary rinks where players will battle it out, with up to 300 teams expected to hit the pavement during the event. And with plenty more happening than just the games themselves, this is one weekend that’s about a lot more than just who takes home the trophy.
Now let’s take a further look at what you can expect during this all-ages event.
What to expect at Play On!
Street hockey has been part of Canadian culture for generations, and Play On! has been bringing the game to communities across the country since 2003. The first tournament was held in Halifax, and the organization has since hosted more than 180 events in 43 Canadian communities.
According to organizers, more than two million players, spectators and volunteers have taken part in Play On! events over the years. And the organization also holds the Guinness World Records for the largest street hockey tournament after more than 42,000 players participated during its largest season.
Now, the tournament is heading back to Calgary for what Play On! says will be its largest event since 2017. The event will take over 10 blocks of downtown Calgary, turning the streets into a huge collection of rinks where teams will go head-to-head throughout the weekend. Once the games get going, teams will be competing for championship medals, Calgary Flames tickets and the iconic power-blue Hockey Night in Canada blazers.
The tournament is open to all ages, so you can come down with the whole family whether you’re there to play, cheer on a team or just see what the action is all about.
Beyond the street hockey, there will be plenty happening around the tournament grounds to keep you busy between games. You can check out festival activations, catch some live entertainment or stop by the Food Truck Face Off and grab something to eat. So even if you’re not playing, there’s lots to keep you occupied.
How to sign up for the Play On! tournament
If you’re thinking about getting in on all the action, all you need is a few friends, a hockey stick and a pair of running shoes. Teams can have four to seven players, and registration costs $79 per person. Everyone who signs up will also get a commemorative event T-shirt to take home.
So while you might be used to seeing street hockey played in driveways and neighbourhood streets, Calgary is about to see it on a much larger scale.
When: Thursday, Aug. 20, to Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Downtown Calgary (covering 10 blocks)
Cost: $79 per player
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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