Sylvan Lake, Alberta, residents and visitors can expect a portion of Lakeshore Drive to close between 42 Street and 44 Street on June 13 and June 14, 2026, for the annual Battle at the Beach ball hockey tournament. According to the Town of Sylvan Lake, detour signs will be in place to help drivers find alternate routes around the area while the games take place.
The 3-on-3 tournament was founded in 2018 by Colin Fraser, a local resident and former professional hockey player who won two Stanley Cups. Now in its eighth year, the competition draws hundreds of players and many visitors to the community waterfront. The event is a major attraction for Sylvan Lake, which typically welcomes about 1 million visitors every year.
The tournament features divisions for players of all ages, from children under seven to adults, and has historically hosted more than 100 teams and over 700 participants. This year, the tournament includes a celebrity game where former professional players will join athletes from Special Olympics Alberta on the court.
Families and fans can also visit food trucks and watch skill competitions, such as contests for the hardest shot and shooting accuracy. Registration for the tournament is currently open, with fees set at $450 for youth teams and $550 for adults. Every participating team is guaranteed at least four games during the two-day event.
