MINNEAPOLIS/SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota hockey fans, it’s time to pass the puck, hit record, and be part of history.
As the Twin Cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis prepare to receive their official “pass” from Ottawa to serve as host of the iconic 2026 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Hockey Championship, fans across the State of Hockey have the opportunity to be part of a crowd-sourced video campaign launching today to celebrate the historic moment.
Officially dubbed The Great Minnesota Puck Pass, fan-submitted content will be compiled into a video montage alongside well-known Minnesotans and hockey legends that showcases the state’s rich hockey tradition and passion for the sport. The video will premiere as part of the ceremonial passing of the event to Minnesota at the conclusion of the 2025 tournament in January in Ottawa. It will also be shared online, on social media platforms, in-arena in Ottawa and Minnesota, and with media.
Hockey fans have until Monday, Dec. 16 to submit a short video of themselves taking part in one of the suggested video directions. From passing an imaginary puck to celebrating an aspect of one of hockey’s many unique traditions, the aim is to showcase all of the elements that make the game great. Fans are encouraged to get creative and show their passion and pride for the State of Hockey.
For complete details and video submission instructions, visit www.mnsportsandevents.org/puckpass.
The handoff ceremony marks the official countdown to the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship and celebrates the Twin Cities’ selection as host of one of international hockey’s most prestigious events. Fans interested in receiving ticket information can click here to sign up for updates.
The IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship is international hockey’s premiere under-20 tournament, where the world’s top young talent will compete for the gold medal. Hosted by Minnesota for just the second time in history, the tournament will feature hockey’s future stars representing their nations in front of thousands of passionate hockey fans at Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul and 3M Arena at Mariucci on the University of Minnesota campus in Minneapolis from December 26, 2025 - January 5, 2026. For more information, visit www.mnsportsandevents.org.
Media Contact: Kathy Ross, PR Consultant
Minnesota Sports and Events
kross@mnsportsandevents.org
612.805.6599
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About Minnesota Sports and Events Minnesota Sports and Events is an independent 501c6 organization designed to bring significant economic, reputational, and social impact to the region through the attraction, promotion, and execution of world-class events. MNSE also advances community initiatives associated with each event with a focus on underserved communities and statewide engagement. For more information, visit www.mnsportsandevents.org.
