Taber, Alberta named winner of Kraft Hockeyville 2026

Taber, Alberta will receive $250,000 for rink upgrades and the opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game in fall 2027.

Taber, Alberta has been named the winner of Kraft Hockeyville 2026. The award was announced by Kraft Heinz in partnership with the NHL and the NHLPA after a nationwide vote. The town will receive $250,000 for rink upgrades and the chance to host an NHL pre-season game in fall 2027. The prize comes after the Taber Community Centre was rendered inoperable following an explosion in December 2025, and it is expected to support repairs and community gatherings. Key details: - Taber will receive $250,000 for rink upgrades and the opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game in fall 2027. - Runner-up Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia will receive $100,000 for rink upgrades as part of an expanded prize pool marking the program's 20th anniversary. - The 2026 program represents more than $1 million in total prizing, the largest investment in Kraft Hockeyville history. - Taber, Tumbler Ridge and the 11 provincial and territorial finalists will each receive $10,000 in new hockey equipment courtesy of NHLPA Goals & Dreams and the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund. - The Taber Community Centre served the town for over 50 years and had hosted local teams, tournaments and events prior to the December 2025 explosion. Summary: The award will fund repairs to Taber's arena and support the rink's return as a local gathering place. Hosting an NHL pre-season game in fall 2027 is part of the prize package. The expanded Top 13 phase and larger prize pool marked the program's 20th anniversary and increased support to communities across Canada.