The annual Barn Burner charity hockey game in Barrie scored a record $702,000 for local charities Thursday night.
Hockey fans gathered at Sadlon Arena on Aug. 6 for an evening of entertainment and fundraising featuring NHL players, PWHL players, hockey alumni and community guests.
The 2026 total surpasses the more than $605,000 raised by the 2025 Barn Burner.
Proceeds from this year’s event will support several local organizations and community initiatives like the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre Foundation, the John Tavares Foundation, PIE Education, local Rotary clubs and the Easter Seals.
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall, who hosted the event, thanked all the people who worked to make the fundraiser a success.
“Every sponsor, player, volunteer and fan played a part in making this our most successful Barn Burner yet,” he said.
“Thank you for believing in this event and, most importantly, in the local charities and families who will benefit from it.”
The 2026 lineup included Toronto Maple Leafs forward John Tavares, NHL players Aaron Ekblad, Bo Horvat and Andrew Mangiapane. NHL alumnus Sam Gagner, Barrie Colts alumnus Kashawn Aitcheson and PWHL star Jessie Eldridge were there too. The game also featured professional and community players like Erik Gudbranson and Brady Leavold.
Gudbranson, who played for Team Denim, told Compass News that helping the community was an important reason for taking part.
“It’s about the charity and giving back where I can, especially to an organization that has done so much for me,” he said.
Leavold, who played for Team Plaid, said hockey has always been important in his life.
“Hockey is an incredible game and it does so much good – I know it’s been such a positive impact in my life,” he said.
The Barn Burner has become one of the region’s largest charitable sporting events, combining professional hockey with live music, entertainment and community fundraising.
Since its inception, the event has raised more than $4 million for local causes.
Plans are already underway for next year’s edition.
