The World Juniors Pre-Tournament Series is making a stop in town, bringing elite international talent and high-energy matchups to the Rochester Rec Center. This rare opportunity lets local fans experience the intensity, speed, and passion of world-class junior hockey right in their backyard. The World Juniors is one of the most exciting annual events in hockey, spotlighting the best under-20 players from around the globe. Many of these athletes are future NHL stars, and Rochester will get a firsthand look before they hit the big stage.
The tournament returns to Minnesota for the second time since 1977. It’s the seventh time the United States has hosted the tournament. Hockey has flourished on the international stage over the past several decades, and countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Switzerland have become significant contributors to the sport’s global talent pool. Sweden remains one of the strongest hockey nations in the world, consistently producing elite players who make major impacts in the National Hockey League. In fact, the Minnesota Wild currently roster 6 professional players from Sweden. In recent years, Denmark and Switzerland—once considered developing hockey countries—have rapidly elevated their programs, leading to a surge of players who now skate in the NHL and excel at the highest levels of competition.
Looking for a pre-game event or transportation to the game?
Join the pre-game party at Tavern 22 on Sunday, December 21, and Tuesday, December 23, featuring food and drink specials from 4–7 p.m. and after the game, plus pre-game entertainment and special prizes. Doors open at 6 p.m. at the Rochester Rec Center, and a shuttle will run between the venue and the games from 6–10 p.m.
Learn more about Tavern 22's pregame event.