The town of Taber, Alberta, erupted in celebration after being announced as the winner of the Kraft Hockeyville 2026 contest on Saturday, April 5, 2026. The victory secures a $250,000 grand prize for community arena upgrades and the opportunity to host an NHL preseason game.
Kraft Heinz Canada and the NHL made the official announcement during the second intermission of the Hockey Night in Canada broadcast. The win followed a nationwide voting campaign where communities shared their stories of hockey's local impact.
"I got goosebumps, almost tears in my eyes," said Taber parent John Browning in reaction to the win, as reported by CBC News. The funds are designated for renovations to the Taber Arena, a central hub for local sports.
As the winner, Taber will host an NHL preseason game in the fall of 2026. The three other finalist communities—Elm Creek, Manitoba; Saint-Pie, Quebec; and Sussex, New Brunswick—each receive $25,000 for their arena facilities.
