Winterland Invitational Brings Lakeland Hockey Together for Ronald McDonald House
Hockey teams from across Alberta filled arenas in Bonnyville, Cold Lake, and Elk Point in mid-January, coming together not just for competition but for a cause that hits close to home for many families.
The annual Winterland Invitational ran from Jan. 16–18, welcoming U9, U11, and U13 teams to the Lakeland region. Beyond the games, the tournament focused on raising funds for Ronald McDonald House Alberta, which supports families while their seriously sick or injured children receive medical care far from home.
Nearly $200,000 raised for Alberta families
Organizers confirmed the 2026 Winterland Invitational raised nearly $200,000 in support of Ronald McDonald House Alberta, marking another significant milestone for the growing tournament.
According to Ronald McDonald House Charities, the funds raised will help keep families together during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, easing financial strain while children receive treatment.
The total came together through a mix of community-driven fundraising efforts, including 50/50 draws, raffles, silent auctions, and sponsorships that pledged donations for every goal scored throughout the weekend.
Team donations make major impact
Several teams and community groups made standout contributions to the overall fundraising total. The Vermilion Tigers donated more than $8,000, while the Lac La Biche Clippers made a significant $20,000 donation.
The Elk Point Lions also contributed $2,500 in support of Ronald McDonald House Alberta, adding to the strong show of regional generosity that helped drive the tournament’s success.
More than just a tournament
The Winterland Invitational continues to grow as both a hockey event and a community fundraiser, drawing teams from across the province and showcasing the strength of minor hockey in the Lakeland.
While players battled on the ice, the weekend served as a reminder of the broader impact sport can have, especially when communities rally together in support of families facing medical crises.
Organizers and Ronald McDonald House Alberta both credited the success of the 2026 event to the generosity of teams, parents, sponsors, volunteers, and fans who filled the stands throughout the weekend.
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Winterland Invitational Brings Lakeland Hockey Together for Ronald McDonald House
Hockey teams from across Alberta filled arenas in Bonnyville, Cold Lake, and Elk Point in mid-January, coming together not just for competition but for a cause that hits close to home for many families.
The annual Winterland Invitational ran from Jan. 16–18, welcoming U9, U11, and U13 teams to the Lakeland region. Beyond the games, the tournament focused on raising funds for Ronald McDonald House Alberta, which supports families while their seriously sick or injured children receive medical care far from home.
Nearly $200,000 raised for Alberta families
Organizers confirmed the 2026 Winterland Invitational raised nearly $200,000 in support of Ronald McDonald House Alberta, marking another significant milestone for the growing tournament.
According to Ronald McDonald House Charities, the funds raised will help keep families together during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, easing financial strain while children receive treatment.
The total came together through a mix of community-driven fundraising efforts, including 50/50 draws, raffles, silent auctions, and sponsorships that pledged donations for every goal scored throughout the weekend.
Team donations make major impact
Several teams and community groups made standout contributions to the overall fundraising total. The Vermilion Tigers donated more than $8,000, while the Lac La Biche Clippers made a significant $20,000 donation.
The Elk Point Lions also contributed $2,500 in support of Ronald McDonald House Alberta, adding to the strong show of regional generosity that helped drive the tournament’s success.
More than just a tournament
The Winterland Invitational continues to grow as both a hockey event and a community fundraiser, drawing teams from across the province and showcasing the strength of minor hockey in the Lakeland.
While players battled on the ice, the weekend served as a reminder of the broader impact sport can have, especially when communities rally together in support of families facing medical crises.
Organizers and Ronald McDonald House Alberta both credited the success of the 2026 event to the generosity of teams, parents, sponsors, volunteers, and fans who filled the stands throughout the weekend.
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you might also like
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