Q:  What's the purpose of the event?

There are several purposes of the event: 
- community-building through a focused single day event that brings the community together for an authentic, inclusive experience
- fostering an appreciation for outdoor pond hockey, a truly Canadian activity
- fundraising for the Millpond Rehabilitation Project.

Check out the "What It's All About", "The Millpond Story" and "The Story of the Classic" pages to learn more.


Q: Why doesn't the event have more teams and more games?

Short answer: Not enough ice.
Long answer: In the past, we've been limited by the size of the Alton Millpond's available ice surface. The Alton Millpond is 3 acres in size, but the river flows continuously down one side and therefore doesn't always freeze over. Also, due to the silt and gradual vegetation build-up, it is presently only large enough to have one full- size rink. Even with perfect conditions such as cold weather (burrrr) and repeated flooding, millpond ice is susceptible to overuse that can cause cracks, chips, etc. This limits how many games can be played during the day and thus limits the number of teams involved in the event.

SO, remember: MORE MONEY RAISED = MORE POND HOCKEY DOWN THE ROAD!!


Q: Where can I buy tickets to the Hot Stove Lounge Pub Night?

Tickets for the Hot Stove Lounge Pub Night can be purchased in advance, in person from Gallery Gemma at the Alton Mill, or by e-transfer to [email protected] (tickets will be put in "Will Call") or from committee members:

Beth Staite: [email protected]
Jeremy Grant: [email protected]

Tickets can also be purchased at the front gate of the Fire and Ice Festival if still available.

If would like to make other arrangements please email us at: [email protected] 
or by phone: 519-766-3696 (Jeremy Grant).