The Farmers and Friends Bonspiel has become more than just a year-end tradition—it’s the kind of event that defines what curling, and community, are all about.
Set to return to Whitewood this week, this year’s edition is shaping up to be the biggest yet. Over 64 teams will take part, made up of all kinds of rinks—veteran groups, competitive squads, weekend curlers, friends playing for fun, and now junior teams joining the mix as well. It’s a true cross-section of the curling community, all coming together in one place.
And for many, this is it. The final stop of the season. The last chance to get on the ice, compete, laugh, and enjoy the game before another curling year comes to a close.
But this event has never been just about the curling.
It’s about people. It’s about community pride. It’s about showing up, year after year, and building something that goes far beyond the scoreboard. In just nine years, this bonspiel is on the verge of surpassing one million dollars in total donations—supporting local groups and causes that rely on that generosity.
That’s not normal. That’s exceptional.
And it feels fitting it all unfolds in a town that embraces doing things a little bigger. Whitewood is home to that towering, 60-foot-long curling broom—an unmistakable landmark that stands as a symbol of the sport and the spirit behind it.
Because that’s what this bonspiel represents.
It’s the end of the season—but also the highlight of it.
A place where every kind of team, every kind of player, and every kind of story comes together. Where competition meets connection. Where the game matters—but giving back matters more.
So when the final stones are thrown, the real story won’t just be who won.
It’ll be what this community continues to build—together.
