The 2016 IIHF World Girls’ Hockey Weekend will take place this Saturday, October 8 and Sunday, October 9.  Now in its sixth year, World Girls’ Hockey Weekend acts as a global celebration of girls’ hockey, which is one of the world’s fastest growing sports, and provides young girls an opportunity to try the sport.

“There are many girls who want to try the great sport of hockey,” said USA Girls’ & Women’s Section Representative for Minnesota, Doug Foster. “Girls’ Hockey Weekend gives the girls an opportunity to experience the game in a fun, social setting.”

Each year approximately 30 or more countries put on over 300 events with the goal of introducing new players to girls’ hockey. In the United States, common events include try hockey ice sessions, bring-a-friend skates, season kick-off parties and scrimmages among current teams.

Minnesota has been a leader in girls’ hockey for decades and continues to set records for participation among girls and women. World Girls’ Hockey Weekend has played a key role in keeping the momentum going. In 2015, Minnesota had 20 communities participate in World Girls’ Hockey Weekend and 24 (see list below) are scheduled to host an event this coming weekend.

“Associations who host these events each year have really found success in growing the number of young girls in their program,” said Foster. “Events that bring in older players, such as local college player or their high school team, seem to have the best impact because they creates role models for the girls.”

To follow along with World Girls’ Hockey Weekend, search for #girlshockey or #WGIHW on Twitter and Instagram.

For a full list of participating locations around the world, click here.