(Image Credit: Jett Schwaier/CHAT News)

By Jett Schwaier

IN THE COMMUNITY

The 61st annual Jam Pail Bonspiel is taking place in Medicine Hat

Mar 10, 2026 | 10:00 AM

The Jam Pail Bonspiel in Medicine Hat is underway for its 61st anniversary, taking place at the Moose Recreation Centre until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10.

The bonspiel is the longest-running sports event in the city, teaching the basic concepts of curling to Medicine Hat’s school-aged children and providing an exciting recreational activity.

Historically, the event’s name comes from early competitions where tin pails that once held jam were filled with water and frozen to serve as curling rocks.

Rebecca Hirsch, the City of Medicine Hat’s Recreation Program Coordinator, said the event is a great way for children to learn the sport of curling in a fun atmosphere.

“We’re really excited to see all these kids out right now and have fun with it, and it’s a really great intro to the sport for them, potentially to find a passion for,” said Hirsch.

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Children of all ages are eligible to participate in the bonspiel in the Family Open category.

“It’s catered specifically for grades 3 to 6, but we go all ages,” Hirsch said.

“We wanted opportunities for people that have already played in the Jam Pail Bonspiel to come back.”

Hirsch said the event has long been a staple in the community and was previously held during Family Week.

“This year we made the decision to take it off of Family Week to include it back with the schools,” Hirsch said.

“It’s nice to see that come back and obviously give the opportunity for people to stay active in this community,” she added.

“Every year, it’s so much fun because the names are fun, the kids have costumes.”

Hirsch said the bonspiel is a great opportunity for children to meet other people and find joy in recreation.

“We’re really excited to see this, and we can’t wait for more years to come.”