Why Hockey Matters in Canada and Why Newcomers Should Care
If you’re new to Canada, there’s one thing you’ll notice very quickly, especially in Montréal and Ottawa: hockey is everywhere. It comes up in conversations at work, on the news, on weekend plans, and even in casual chats at the grocery store.
For Canadians, hockey is far more than a sport. It’s a shared cultural experience, a winter ritual, and a powerful way communities connect. For newcomers, understanding hockey can actually help you feel more at home.
Hockey as Part of Canadian Identity
Hockey has been part of Canadian life for generations. Many children learn to skate almost as soon as they can walk, and local arenas are at the heart of neighborhoods across the country. Winter evenings are often spent watching games, cheering for a favorite team, or attending community tournaments.
In a country where winters are long and cold, hockey has become a way to gather, celebrate, and stay connected. It creates common ground between people of all ages, backgrounds, and professions.
Hockey Culture in Montréal and Ottawa
Hockey night at the Bell Center. Go Habs
In Montréal, hockey is almost a language of its own. The Montréal Canadiens, often called the Habs, are deeply woven into the city’s identity. Game nights at the Bell Centre bring an electric atmosphere, and even people who don’t follow sports know the team’s history and importance.
In Ottawa, hockey also plays a strong role in community life. From professional games to local leagues and outdoor rinks, it’s common to see families, colleagues, and friends gathering around the ice during winter months.
For newcomers, attending a game or even watching one on TV can be an easy way to understand local culture and join conversations naturally.
Why Hockey Helps Newcomers Connect
You don’t need to be a hockey expert to benefit from it. Simply knowing the basics can make social interactions smoother. Colleagues often talk about last night’s game, weekend matchups, or playoff excitement. Being able to follow along, even casually, helps you feel included.
Hockey is also a great way to meet people. Many newcomers join recreational leagues, skating classes, or community rink activities. These spaces are welcoming, social, and perfect for building connections outside of work.
Hockey Basics for Beginners
If you’re new to the sport, here are a few simple things to know:
The hockey season usually runs from October to April, with playoffs in the spring
Games are fast-paced and typically last about two and a half hours
Teams score by shooting the puck into the opposing team’s net
In Montréal, knowing who the Canadiens are will definitely help
You don’t need to understand every rule. Just watching a few games will quickly give you a sense of the rhythm and excitement.
Feeling at Home Beyond Logistics
Relocating to a new country involves much more than finding housing or setting up bank accounts. Feeling settled also means understanding the culture, traditions, and small everyday details that shape daily life.
Moments like watching a hockey game, skating at a neighborhood rink, or talking about the Habs with a neighbor can make a big difference in how connected you feel to your new home.
At Relocate and Thrive, we help newcomers settle into Ottawa and Montréal by supporting both the practical side of relocation and the human side of integration. Because thriving in a new country isn’t just about moving, it’s about belonging.
If you’re planning a move to Canada or supporting international staff arriving in Ottawa or Montréal, we’re here to help you feel at home, on and off the ice.