Summary: Dawson City Bonspiel 2026 runs February 19–21 at the Dawson City Curling Club. The three-day tournament features mixed four-player teams, matches on natural ice, visiting squads from Alaska and the Northwest Territories, a community banquet and after-party.

The Dawson City Bonspiel 2026 is set to return to Dawson City, Yukon from February 19–21, 2026. The annual event combines competitive curling on natural ice with community celebrations, drawing teams from across the Yukon, Alaska and the Northwest Territories.

What is the Dawson City International Curling Bonspiel?

The Dawson City International Curling Bonspiel is an annual winter tournament that brings together a mix of local and regional teams for friendly but fiercely contested curling. Known locally as a highlight of the winter season, the bonspiel celebrates community spirit and the region’s curling traditions.

When and where?

The 2026 bonspiel will be hosted at the Dawson City Curling Club from February 19 to February 21. Matches begin at 5:00 PM on February 19 and the tournament concludes with final matches on February 21. The event is staged on natural ice, a feature that adds both challenge and local character to the competition.

Format and competition

Teams typically consist of four players and the bonspiel uses a mixed format that encourages participation from men and women alike. Competitors are placed into event brackets—often labelled A, B and C—so that every team plays multiple matches regardless of early results. The structure blends serious tactical play with the social, inclusive spirit that defines a bonspiel.

  • Dates: February 19–21, 2026
  • Venue: Dawson City Curling Club (natural ice)
  • Start time: Matches begin at 5:00 PM on February 19
  • Format: Mixed four-player teams, A/B/C brackets

International participation and tradition

The bonspiel regularly attracts teams from Alaska, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories, creating a cross-border atmosphere. That regional exchange dates back to the 1930s and remains an important part of the event’s identity, giving local fans a chance to see visiting players and strengthening northern community ties.

Curlers competing on natural ice at the Dawson City Bonspiel with spectators and historic town buildings visible
Action from a previous Dawson City bonspiel at the Dawson City Curling Club; natural ice and community turnout are hallmarks of the event

Community events: banquet and after-party

Beyond the sheets, the bonspiel is a social gathering. The community banquet—usually held on Saturday evening—brings together players, volunteers and spectators for awards, speeches and celebrations. Later, an after-party extends the festivities at local venues, offering music, dancing and the chance to swap stories about the day’s matches.

Why attend the Dawson City Bonspiel 2026?

The bonspiel offers a distinctive mix of competitive curling and northern culture. Visitors can experience matches on natural ice, engage with a close-knit community, and explore Dawson City’s Klondike-era streets and winter landscapes. For sports fans and curious travellers alike, the event provides an intimate and authentic winter experience.

Local businesses also benefit from the influx of participants and spectators, with hotels, restaurants and shops seeing increased activity over the three days. The bonspiel therefore plays a role in sustaining Dawson City’s winter economy.

Practical tips for visitors

  • Book accommodation early — the bonspiel increases local demand.
  • Dress for Yukon winter conditions; layers and sturdy boots are recommended.
  • Arrive with basic knowledge of curling rules to get the most from matches.
  • Plan to enjoy community events like the banquet and after-party to meet locals.

Whether you come for the sport, the social scene, or the chance to explore Yukon winter scenery, mark February 19–21, 2026 in your calendar for a memorable community sporting event in Dawson City.

Why it matters: For travellers and the tourism industry, the Dawson City Bonspiel 2026 highlights how seasonal sporting events can drive visitation to smaller destinations, support local businesses and showcase regional culture. Attending offers both a sporting spectacle and an opportunity to experience the Yukon’s winter heritage up close.