The annual tradition that turns a hockey game into a blizzard of plush toys returned to Lethbridge on Friday night. The Lethbridge Hurricanes hosted their much-anticipated Teddy Bear Toss game, inviting fans to bring new stuffed animals to the arena.
A Flurry of Fur for a Good Cause
The central event of the evening is a beloved ritual in the Western Hockey League. Fans hold onto their new teddy bears and other stuffed toys, waiting for the Hurricanes to score their first goal of the game. Once that puck hits the net, the stands erupt not just in cheers, but in a rain of soft, cuddly projectiles. Thousands of stuffed animals then cover the ice in a heartwarming spectacle.
The collected toys are not just for show. All donated items are gathered and distributed to local charities and organizations across southern Alberta. This initiative ensures they reach children and families in need during the holiday season, spreading cheer far beyond the arena walls.
More Than Just a Game
Events like the Teddy Bear Toss have become cornerstone community engagements for WHL teams. They blend the excitement of high-level junior hockey with direct, tangible charitable impact. For the Lethbridge Hurricanes organization, it represents a key moment to connect with their fanbase and give back to the community that supports them all season long.
The game itself is a highlight on the team's calendar, often drawing one of the largest and most energetic crowds of the year. The unique delay between the first goal and the resumption of play, while crews scramble to clear the ice of plush donations, creates a memorable and joyous atmosphere unmatched by a typical hockey match.
The annual Teddy Bear Toss was held on Friday, December 6, 2025, continuing a tradition that has brought smiles to countless faces, both in the arena and throughout the wider community.
