Ottawa is set to be the epicenter of junior hockey once again as the 2025 World Junior Hockey Championship kicks off. From December 26 to January 5, the city will host teams from around the globe, including Canada, which aims to capture its 21st title on home ice.
The last time Ottawa hosted the World Juniors was back in 2009, and it was a historic event. Not only did the tournament draw more than 453,000 fans, but it also generated around $18.4 million for the local economy, with $2.1 million going directly to city tax revenues. This time around, local officials, including Jerome Miousse, the director of public affairs for Ottawa Tourism, believe the city can exceed those figures.
“It’s just about as big as it gets for Ottawa,” Miousse commented, expressing hope for even greater economic benefits. The successful bid for the tournament was largely due to expectations of more than $50 million pumped back to the economy and heavy hotel bookings.
With the tournament taking place during what is usually slower holiday season, Ottawa is bracing for significant tourist influx. OSEG president and CEO Mark Goudie projects up to 100 million dollars of potential financial impact, largely from the 15,000 hotel rooms booked and over 20,000 visitors scheduled to arrive.
The World Junior Championship features ten teams, with Canada slated to open the tournament against Finland on December 26 at the Canadian Tire Centre. Local Olympians and young stars like Cole Beaudoin, who recently drafted by the Utah Hockey Club, and Oliver Bonk, drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers, have personal stakes as they represent their country and hometown.
Fans can also experience the tournament by participating beyond the games, with the free fan fest located at the Aberdeen Pavilion. This space will host activities such as synthetic ice skating, food stalls, and live music, all concluding with fireworks on New Year’s Eve, adding festivities to Ottawa’s dynamic spirit.
Canada’s participation is particularly noteworthy this year as they look for redemption after last year’s upset when they were eliminated by Czechia. Team captain Brayden Yager, along with top prospects like Gavin McKenna—who's drawing comparisons to Connor Bedard—are hoping to fuel Canada’s success this tournament.
Historically, Canada has dominated the World Juniors, but the tournament is always rife with fierce competition. The United States emerged victorious last year, and Finland, which seeks its sixth title, promises to be tough competitors.
Dean McIntosh, Hockey Canada's senior vice-president of revenue, fan experience, and community impact emphasized the significance of the World Juniors to Canadian culture: “The World Juniors is really part of our holiday tradition.” This connection resonates deeply within the community, illustrated by local engagement and enthusiasm surrounding the event.
Many fans are anticipating the charged atmosphere at the Canadian Tire Centre, reminiscent of previous years heightened by passionate Canadian supporters filling the stands. Radek Bonk, former Ottawa Senators forward and father of current player Oliver Bonk, reflected proudly on the team’s chance to perform at home, fueled by local support.
Beyond the stellar hockey on display, Ottawa’s economic community thrives as local businesses prepare for the surge of tourism-related revenue. The Bank of Canada Museum is even offering photo opportunities with its iconic $5 bill featuring children playing hockey—a delightful nod to Canada’s rich cultural heritage.
The excitement doesn’t stop here; OC Transpo is providing free transit for ticket holders to enjoy seamless travel to and from games. This gesture encapsulates the spirit of community as residents rally behind their teams.”
Culmination of hockey action will set the stage for the gold medal game set for January 5, marking the conclusion of this two-week celebration of talent and community spirit. Ottawa is ready to create yet another unforgettable chapter in the storied history of the World Junior Hockey Championship.
