Star-studded charity hockey game makes major donation to hockey organizations

Young people are playing hockey at the Paul Sadlon arena in Barrie, Ont.

Several hockey organizations are benefitting from an annual charity hockey game.

The Boots and Hearts Barn Burner is donating $15,000 to various minor hockey programs in the region, including Barrie Minor Hockey Association, Orillia Minor Hockey Association, Barrie Junior Sharks, Muskoka Bears Junior Hockey Team, Orillia Eagles Special Needs Hockey Club and Orillia Girls Hockey Association.

Each organization will receive $2,500 that will go toward equipment, ice time and program development.

The goal of the Barn Burner is to help foster the growth and development of young athletes and giving more young people the opportunity to take up sports, regardless of finances, in Simcoe County and Muskoka.

Barrie Mayor and Chair of Boots and Hearts Barn Burner Alex Nuttall shared his excitement about the donation.

“Hockey is more than just a game - it teaches teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. We are thrilled to support these local organizations and help ensure every young player has the opportunity to grow both on and off the ice.”

Boots and Hearts, title sponsor of the Barn Burner, is Canada’s largest country music and camping festival, held each summer at Burl’s Creek Event Grounds in Oro-Medonte.

The 2026 lineup for the festival was announced Wednesday morning.

The Boots and Hearts Barn Burner is an annual charity hockey game featuring NHL and PWHL hockey players that raises money for a variety of charities in the region.