Think "Timmins" and hockey might come to mind.
The Northern Ontario city on the Mattagami River is known for its winter sports culture, especially on the ice. Over the years, it has produced dozens of NHL players and hosts regular tournaments and events, both recreational and competitive.
One of those is the annual Mushkegowuk Cup, which unites sport and connection as teams from Indigenous communities in the region go head-to-head in hockey.
Youth teams from across Northern Ontario gather each year in Timmins for a weekend of community, celebration and, of course, to settle rivalries on the ice.
Youth ages five to 20 will play games at arenas across the city over three days in mid-February in an event that typically draws hundreds of players—plus their families—from more than a dozen First Nations.
“We are excited for this year’s hockey tournament,” the council said on social media.
Much more than just hockey, the gathering supports community, cultural connection and exchange and offers a safe, positive space for Indigenous youth to develop skills and confidence through sport.
The tournament also aims to raise awareness about bullying and uses the tagline, “Leaders never bully” in its promotional material.
The cup is just one of the annual sporting events hosted by the Mushkegowuk Council’s youth department. The council serves Omushkego Cree communities in Northern Ontario.
Timmins is located in Treaty 9 territory and on the traditional lands of Mattagami, Flying Post and Matachewan First Nations. It’s a hub for First Nations communities, rich in culture and history. Statistics Canada data shows about 15 per cent of the city’s population identified as Indigenous in 2021.
The 17th annual Mushkegowuk Cup returns to Timmins from February 13 to 15 and has recreational and competitive games in all divisions. Divisions range from under 7 to under 21, with a maximum of eight teams per category. There are three divisions specifically for women and girls: under 15, under 18 and under 21.
A vendor day will take place on February 14 at the McIntyre Community Centre at the edge of Pearl Lake off of Lions Crest Lane, about a five-minute drive from downtown. The tournament itself is typically played at multiple arenas across the city.
Known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventure, Timmins draws thousands of visitors each year. A service centre for northeastern Ontario, Timmins is a hub for the surrounding region and hosts popular community-based events, like the Mushkegowuk Cup tournament.
Snowmobiling, snowshoeing, curling and ice fishing are other favourite winter sports in Timmins. For laid-back winter fun, visit the Hollinger Park for a well-lit outdoor skating path — it’s free and skate rentals are available. Or, layer up and explore local trails. Gillies Lake Conservation Area boasts spectacular wintry snowscapes and is right on the edge of downtown.
Warm up with local culture, history and mining heritage at the Timmins Museum National Exhibition Centre, meet wildlife and explore the planetarium wing at Science Timmins, or hit the lanes at Mid-Town Bowl.
The South Porcupine Winter Carnival—a tradition that’s a half a century old—typically takes place on the second weekend in February, bringing a weekend of chilly fun to Timmins. A breakfast at the fire station, free skating, a reptile show, music, fireworks and local vendors selling craft and other goods were all part of last year’s event, the 49th.
Be sure to check local calendars for schedules closer to the date.
Timmins is home to a variety of accommodations, including quaint bed-and-breakfasts, affordable motels and boutique hotels. Stay downtown for easy access to the city’s amenities, or drive a few The Cedar Meadows Resort and Spa, Super 8, Balsam Suites Boutique Inn and Residence, Regal, Senator Hotel and Conference Centre, Bon-Air Motel and Carabelle Motel are some of the options in the area.
The council recommends teams and their families book accommodations early due to other events and the Family Day holiday.
From downtown watering holes to family-friendly chains, Timmins has plenty of food options, boasting international cuisine, as well as pubs, diners and lunch counters. Get a portable lunch at Ciao Sandwich Co. or sit back and relax at Casey’s Bar and Grill with a cold pint and a burger. For all-you-can-eat sushi, Osaka is the spot. Try Full Beard Brewing for innovative craft beer options, and Cedar Meadows for elevated traditional foods in a dining room that’s at once rustic and modern.
Within the community centre is the McIntyre Coffee Shop, a family-friendly diner and convenient place to grab breakfast, lunch, hot drinks and diner staples.
You can find just about anything at Timmins Square, a shopping centre with about 50 stores, including major retailers like Winners and SportChek. For a local experience, head downtown for a stroll through streets with independent boutiques and specialty shops. Take home a piece of local culture from the Timmins Museum Gift Shop, where you’ll find locally made crafts, Indigenous art, clothing, decor and sweet treats.
As teams, families, and fans gather in Timmins this winter, the Mushkegowuk Cup offers visitors a chance to experience the city at its most connected—on the ice and beyond. Whether you’re coming to cheer on young players, support local vendors, or explore Timmins’ winter attractions, the tournament weekend is a reminder of how sport brings people together across Northern Ontario.
