Downtown Moncton is buzzing with anticipation as the city prepares to host a World Juniors exhibition game.
Sunday’s matchup between Slovakia and Germany takes place at the Avenir Centre at 2 p.m.
Patrick Richard, executive director of Downtown Moncton Centre-ville Inc., said local businesses are ready for this weekend’s event.
“We brought in some pretty major tournaments and events into the city and I think that’s in response to Monctonians wanting to take in that world-class entertainment,” Richard said.
The game is expected to draw mostly local attendees, with some international visitors, including parents, coaches, and officials from the teams.
“The timing aligns with the Christmas rush, making it a busy period for businesses,” Richard said.
The executive director mentioned that businesses are accustomed to handling higher volumes of visitors due to the Wildcats’ home games.
The Wildcats, Moncton’s major junior hockey team, regularly draw large crowds, which prepares local businesses for events like the World Juniors exhibition game.
This game is part of the lead-up to the 2025 IIHF World Juniors in Ottawa from Dec. 26 to Jan. 5.
