SUMMERSIDE, PE - Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL), have announced that the City of Summerside has been selected to host the 2026 Centennial Cup, presented by Tim Hortons, Canada’s National Junior A Hockey Championship.
The 10-day event will take place May 7–17, 2026 at Credit Union Place, with the host Summerside Western Capitals competing for a national title against nine competitors, each qualifying for the event by winning their respective league titles during the 2025-26 season.
Prince Edward Island has a proud historical connection with the Centennial Cup. Summerside previously hosted the event in 1989, 1997, and 2013, while Charlottetown hosted the event in 1971 and 2003.
“Sport tourism continues to be a key driver of economic activity across the province, bringing visitors during shoulder seasons and showcasing our communities to a national audience,” said Zack Bell, Minister of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture of Prince Edward Island. “Events like this not only support local businesses, but also highlight the energy and hospitality that make PEI a top destination for visitors. We look forward to the energy and excitement this event will bring to the province.
The Summerside Western Capitals themselves are no strangers to national competition. The team reached the Centennial Cup finals in both 1989 and 2013 and captured the championship in 1997. Over the decades, the Capitals have built a winning tradition with league championships in 1984 and 1986 (IJHL), and again in 1997, 2009 (also winning the Fred Page Cup as Eastern Region champions), 2011, 2013, and most recently in 2022.
“Summerside is honoured to be chosen as the host city for the 2026 Centennial Cup,” shared Dan Kutcher, Mayor of the City of Summerside. “This event represents the pinnacle of Canadian Junior A hockey, and we are excited to welcome teams, fans, and visitors from across the country to our community. Hosting the Centennial Cup is not only an opportunity to showcase world-class hockey but also to share Summerside’s renowned hospitality, vibrant culture, and passion for sport. We look forward to the lasting economic and social benefits this national championship will bring, and we are proud to once again shine on the national stage as a leading destination for sports and entertainment.”
Hosting the Centennial Cup is expected to generate significant economic and tourism benefits for Summerside and Prince Edward Island, drawing fans, teams, officials, and media from across the country, while also spotlighting the city to viewers across the world through live game broadcasts. The event is projected to generate over $5 million in economic impact, with teams in town for 14 days and 10 days of competition.
“The Maritime Hockey League (MHL) is proud to support the Summerside Western Capitals, City of Summerside, and the Province of Prince Edward Island on their successful bid to host the 2026 Centennial Cup,” shared Matt Moore, Commissioner of the MHL. “Summerside has long been recognized for its outstanding ability to host major events, and this opportunity will showcase not only the city’s passion for the game, but also the proud hockey tradition of our Maritime region. In hosting the Centennial Cup, it provides a national stage for two MHL teams to represent our league, and we have every confidence that the community of Summerside will deliver an unforgettable championship experience for players, fans, and the entire Canadian hockey community.”
Ticket information and volunteer opportunities for the 2026 Centennial Cup, presented by Tim Hortons, will be shared at a later date.
-30-
City of Summerside
The City of Summerside is located in Prince County, Prince Edward Island, Canada with the mindset of promoting and advancing its small city with big opportunities. Summerside offers a diverse market and skilled workforce and is a leader in sectors such as green energy, sport tourism and rapid economic growth. To learn more, please visitSummerside.ca or connect through Facebook, X, or Instagram.