American Pond Hockey

Start: Friday, February 6, 2026 9:00AM
End: Sunday, February 8, 2026 12:49PM

American Pond Hockey (APH) is a premier outdoor hockey tournament and community celebration held each winter in downtown Minocqua, Wisconsin. Established in 2022, APH was founded on the idea of bringing people together through the simple joy of playing hockey outdoors, where the sport began. Set on the frozen Aqua Bowl, the event combines competition, community, and culture—transforming a quiet winter landscape into a vibrant festival of ice, lights, music, and camaraderie. The event features handcrafted rinks built on natural lake ice, offering players and fans a truly authentic pond hockey experience. Teams from across the U.S., Canada, and abroad travel to compete in multiple divisions that accommodate all levels of play—from elite “Invitational” squads to local and recreational “Open” teams. Off the ice, spectators enjoy food and beverage vendors, live entertainment, and the energy of a true Northwoods winter gathering. More than just a tournament, American Pond Hockey has become a symbol of community revitalization during a time of year when the local economy typically slows. The event directly supports winter tourism, small businesses, and local non-profits, while promoting the long-term vision of maintaining a public skating venue throughout the winter. The Aqua Bowl, normally unused in the colder months, is repurposed into a multi-rink facility open for public skating, youth hockey, and winter recreation. APH has raised thousands of dollars for area organizations, including the Lakeland Hawks Ice Arena, Lions Club, Minocqua Fire Department, Honor Flight, Forest Riders, Min-Aqua Bats, and Minocqua Winter Park. Each non-profit is invited to engage with the crowd, host fundraising contests, and take advantage of the platform the event creates. The goal is to foster collaboration between businesses, volunteers, and local organizations while giving residents and visitors alike a reason to embrace the season. Key partners have included Rocky Reef Brewing Company, which brews a limited-edition “Rink Water” beer exclusively for the event, and Ariens, whose snow and ice equipment powers rink preparation. These partnerships reflect the event’s mission to keep collaboration local and showcase Wisconsin craftsmanship and pride. American Pond Hockey has also gained significant recognition for its community impact and tourism value. It has earned honors such as the Community Spirit Award, Beef-A-Rama People’s Choice and Best Dressed Awards, and the Governor’s Award for Tourism Service Excellence, presented to outstanding events that elevate Wisconsin’s tourism industry. The vision of APH extends beyond the tournament weekend. Its organizers continue to invest in ice maintenance, lighting, snow removal systems, and site improvements to ensure that Minocqua remains a destination for outdoor skating and winter recreation. This work is sustained by a mix of sponsorships, volunteer support, and private investment, reflecting a long-term commitment to community enrichment. Each February, the event brings together players, families, and fans who share a love for the outdoors and the game of hockey. From early morning matchups to evening celebrations under the lights, the atmosphere is one of nostalgia, laughter, and sportsmanship—reminiscent of simpler times on frozen ponds across the Midwest. At its core, American Pond Hockey represents the enduring values of teamwork, perseverance, and community. It celebrates not only the sport itself, but the people and places that make it possible. With continued support from the town, local businesses, and participants around the world, APH aims to grow as both a premier winter destination and a model for how small towns can thrive through collaboration, creativity, and shared purpose. Learn more or get involved at www.americanpondhockey.com.