Sports & Recreation in Northeast British Columbia

Northeast BC is a region that lives and breathes sports. From the roar of hockey crowds at the North Peace Arena to the crack of curling stones at clubs across the Peace Region, athletic competition is woven into the fabric of daily life here. The long winters fuel a passionate indoor sports culture, while the sprawling northern landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation once the ice breaks.

Hockey Country

Hockey is king in the Peace Region. The Fort St. John Flyers and other teams in the NWJHL draw loyal crowds throughout the winter season, turning Friday and Saturday nights into community gatherings. Minor hockey programs in Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, and Fort Nelson develop young players from novice through midget divisions, and the rinks stay busy from early October through late March. Dawson Creek’s Encana Events Centre and Fort St. John’s North Peace Arena serve as the main venues for competitive and recreational skating alike.

Year-Round Recreation

Beyond hockey, the region supports a wide range of organized sports. Curling clubs in Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, and Chetwynd host bonspiels and league play throughout the winter months. Pickleball has surged in popularity, with dedicated court time at recreation centres across the region. The Fort St. John Aquatic Centre and Dawson Creek pool facilities keep swimmers active year-round, from lane swimming and aquafit classes to family leisure swims.

When the snow melts, ball diamonds, soccer pitches, and running trails come alive. Golf courses in Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, and Chetwynd open as early as May and stay playable well into September. The Powder King Mountain Resort near Mackenzie and Pine Pass offers skiing and snowboarding during winter, drawing riders from across the Peace Region.

• NWJHL hockey games run from October through March at local arenas
• Curling bonspiels welcome teams of all skill levels throughout winter
• Summer sports leagues for softball, soccer, and baseball run from May through August
• Swimming lessons and aquatic programs operate year-round at municipal pools
• Rodeo events and gymkhanas carry on a proud ranching tradition in the Peace Region

Whether you are signing up a child for their first skating lesson or looking for a pickup basketball game, Northeast BC has facilities and programs to keep you moving in every season.

Stay active and connected with sports and recreation events across northeast British Columbia. From hockey games and curling bonspiels to fitness classes, running races, and community leagues, the Peace Region offers year-round sporting opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Browse upcoming sports events below.