Celebrate Columbus Day Weekend at one of Defender’s premier events—the Columbus Day Invitational in Hershey, PA. Taking place October 10-12, 2026 at Klick Lewis Arena, Twin Ponds Arena, and York Ice Arena, this standout tournament is part of Defender’s two-event holiday series and ranks as the second largest event of the Fall/Winter season, hosting more than 100+ teams. With a guaranteed four-game minimum over three days, teams can expect high-level competition, great energy, and a professionally run experience from start to finish.
Off the ice, the Hershey region offers a true destination experience for families, featuring attractions like Hersheypark, local dining, shopping, and plenty of fall activities to enjoy between games. Whether you're coming for the competition or the experience, the Columbus Day Invitational delivers a memorable holiday weekend and a tournament atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
Featuring:
Multiple Divisions/Levels
Competitive Format
USA Hockey Sanctioned
Certified Referees
Championship Awards
Online Stats & Standings via Defender GAME CENTER powered by Time To Score
Live Streaming via Black Bear TV
Round Robin with Playoffs (Minimum of 4 games). Teams may play one or more
round robin games DAY 1, one or more round robin games on DAY 2, with
consolation/semi-finals and/or championship games on the final day. NOTE: Semi-Final
rounds and/or consolation games are not guaranteed.
Divisional allocation is based on USA Hockey roster/age group classification for the
upcoming season. However, the tournament operations staff may adjust placements to
fit individual team competitiveness on a case-by-case basis.
Tournament game schedule will be released 7-10 days prior to the event start
date.
Teams must arrive and be available in the local area by the day before the tournament
begins and be prepared to play at 7:00 AM local time on the first day of the tournament.
Departure should be scheduled on or after the final tournament day, with final games
expected to finish by roughly 5:00 PM local time.
Disclaimer: We have noticed an increase in teams that have withdrawn from events at
the last minute causing us to have to re-work the schedule. Please DO NOT make any
plans that cannot be refunded based on the schedule you receive.
