Visitor’s Guide to American Pond Hockey

American Pond Hockey Public Weekend Schedule

The American Pond Hockey Tournament is back in Minocqua, and whether you’re here to chase the trophy or just soak up the Northwoods atmosphere, we’ve got you covered.

Admission is free for spectators.

The Official Weekend Schedule

Thursday: The Warm-Up

  • 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Kick things off at the Welcome Party at The Bottled Bean. Open to the public

  • Stop by for coffee, beer, and great panini sandwiches.

Friday: Under the Lights

  • 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Tournament games begin!

  • After-Hours: Head over to The Thirsty Whale for live music to cap off night one.

Saturday: The Big Show

  • 9:15 AM: Games resume.

  • 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit the Yacht Club for the Official APH Bloody Mary Bar.

  • 5:30 PM: The Premier Championship Game.

    • Halftime Highlight: Keep your eyes on the ice for the Ariens Puck Toss Challenge. One lucky winner is going home with a shiny new snowblower!

  • Saturday After-Party: The Thirsty Whale

Sunday: Open A & B playoffs

  • Morning sets the stage for the Open A and Open B Semifinals and Championships. Come cheer on the final teams standing!

Official 2026 Venue Map at American Pond Hockey in Minocqua, Wisconin

Style & Skill Contests

We aren’t just looking for goals; we’re looking for character. Thanks to Third Assist Hockey, we’ll be giving away "silky mitts" (high-end leather gloves) for:

  1. Best Facial Hair: Let those playoff beards grow.

  2. Best Overall Winter Style: Dust off that little winter diddy you’ve been wanting to rock in public

Off-Ice Action: Wisconsin Hockey History

Need a break from the cold? Head a few blocks over to the Minocqua Public Library on Saturday at 11:00 AM.

  • The Program: Jeff Olson and ECHL great Brent Gwidt will count down the Top 10 Wisconsin Homegrown NHL Greats.

  • Photo Op: Strike a pose with a life-size photo of the Stanley Cup!

Gear Up

Want to look the part? Official American Pond Hockey merchandise is available now:

  • Pre-Tournament: Minocqua Area Visitors Center (Regular business hours).

  • Tournament Weekend: Available on-site all weekend long.

Hit the Ice Yourself

The Public Studio Rink is open all weekend for fans and families! To get out there, you just need two things:

  1. Wear a helmet.

  2. Sign the Digital Waiver here before you lace up.

See you on the lake!

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Northwoods Adult Hockey Club - Interest Call Out