Last Updated: January 9, 2026
Professional box lacrosse has returned to Ottawa for the first time in over two decades, and the Black Bears are already making their mark on the National Lacrosse League.
The Ottawa Black Bears represent the return of professional lacrosse to Canada’s capital after a 21-year absence, bringing fast-paced, high-scoring action to the Canadian Tire Centre. Whether you’re a longtime lacrosse fan or curious about experiencing this uniquely Canadian sport, here’s everything you need to know about catching a Black Bears game.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: The Ottawa Black Bears play NLL lacrosse at Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata. Home games run November through April, with tickets starting around $17. The team features franchise leader Jeff Teat and draws passionate crowds averaging over 5,400 fans per game.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Kanata |
| 🏒 League | National Lacrosse League (NLL) |
| 🎟️ Tickets | From $17-$54+ (season tickets from $229) |
| ⏰ Game Times | Fridays 7:00/7:30 PM, Saturdays 7:00 PM |
| 🚗 Parking | $21 general parking, $60 valet |
What Makes Black Bears Games Special
Image: The Black Bears bring fast-paced NLL action to Canadian Tire Centre
Box lacrosse delivers non-stop entertainment that’s perfect for sports fans of any experience level. Unlike field lacrosse, the indoor version features six players per side on a hockey-rink-sized floor, with a 30-second shot clock that keeps scoring opportunities coming at a relentless pace.
The Black Bears play in the NLL alongside five other Canadian franchises: Calgary Roughnecks, Halifax Thunderbirds, Saskatchewan Rush, Toronto Rock, and Vancouver Warriors. The team is led by Jeff Teat, the 2020 NLL first overall pick who has quickly become the franchise scoring leader. Head coach Dan Ladouceur brings five NLL championships worth of experience to the bench.
What sets Ottawa’s fanbase apart is the sophisticated understanding of lacrosse among local supporters. Players have noted how knowledgeable Ottawa crowds are about the game’s nuances, creating an atmosphere that’s both passionate and appreciative of skilled play.
The History Behind the Team
Image: Ottawa fans packed the arena for the Black Bears inaugural home opener
The Black Bears franchise began play in the 2024-25 NLL season following the relocation of the New York Riptide. The announcement came on February 21, 2024, when the team moved to Ottawa due to attendance issues in New York and rebranded with the Black Bears identity.
This marks Ottawa’s return to professional box lacrosse for the first time since 2003, when the Ottawa Rebel played their final season. The Rebel existed from 2001 to 2003, initially at the Corel Centre (now Canadian Tire Centre) before moving to the downtown Ottawa Civic Centre. Though the Rebel had a modest record, they introduced box lacrosse to the city and built foundational support that the Black Bears are now capitalizing on.
The team’s design incorporates Indigenous heritage at its core. Forward Larson Sundown, a member of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, was instrumental in the jersey design process, incorporating an Indigenous “People’s Motif” representing peace, friendship, and unity. This connection to lacrosse’s Indigenous roots gives the Black Bears a meaningful cultural dimension beyond typical professional sports branding.
The inaugural home game on November 30, 2024, showcased the team’s immediate competitive strength with a dominant 11-5 victory over the Toronto Rock in front of 7,000 enthusiastic fans.
Getting to Canadian Tire Centre
Image: Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata hosts all Black Bears home games
The Canadian Tire Centre sits in Kanata, approximately 22 kilometres west of downtown Ottawa. The arena is accessible via Highway 417 interchanges at Palladium Drive or Terry Fox Drive. From downtown, expect a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic conditions.
Parking Options:
General parking in Lots 5, 6, and 9 costs $21 per vehicle. Lots often fill 30 minutes before events, particularly Lots 5 and 6, though Lot 9 typically has availability throughout games. Valet parking is available for $60. You can pre-purchase parking online through Ticketmaster or the Indigo Neo Mobile App to avoid delays.
Accessible parking is available in Lot 3 (southeast corner) for guests with valid government-issued accessible parking permits. A limited number of spaces can be reserved in advance via Ticketmaster.
Public Transit:
OC Transpo provides event-specific shuttle service via Connexion 400 series routes (Routes 404 and 405). Multiple regular bus routes also serve the arena, including Routes 12, 40, and 62. Travel time from downtown (Tunney’s Pasture Station) averages 45 minutes via bus.
For passenger drop-off, use Frank Finnigan Way directly in front of Gate 1.
Home Game Schedule
Image: The Black Bears play nine home games throughout the NLL season
The Black Bears host nine home games during the 2025-26 NLL regular season. Home games typically fall on Friday nights (7:00 or 7:30 PM) and Saturday evenings (7:00 PM).
2025-26 Home Schedule:
| Date | Opponent | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, November 29 | San Diego Seals | 7:00 PM |
| Friday, December 12 | Saskatchewan Rush | 7:30 PM |
| Saturday, December 27 | Philadelphia Wings | 7:00 PM |
| Friday, January 9 | Halifax Thunderbirds | 7:00 PM |
| Friday, January 23 | Vancouver Warriors | 7:30 PM |
| Saturday, February 7 | Calgary Roughnecks | 7:00 PM |
| Saturday, February 28 | Oshawa FireWolves | 7:00 PM |
| Saturday, March 28 | Georgia Swarm | 7:00 PM |
| Friday, April 10 | Toronto Rock | 7:30 PM |
All games are broadcast on TSN, TSN+, ESPN+, and NLL+ for those who can’t make it in person.
Tickets and Seating
Single game tickets range from $17 to $54+ depending on opponent and seating location, with average pricing around $30-40. Season tickets offer significant savings, starting at $229 for 9 home games in corner and end seating, scaling up to $300+ for preferred locations.
The arena’s 100-level concourse provides excellent sightlines and convenient access to amenities. The 200-level seats offer prime views with convenient bar and food service access nearby. For the most intimate experience, look for tickets to the Coors Original Rally Row at field level, where fans enjoy food and drinks while watching the action up close.
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, Vivid Seats, and the official Ottawa Black Bears website. Early season games typically offer the best value and less competition for optimal seating.
What to Know Before You Go
Image: Black Bears games offer an electric atmosphere for fans of all ages
Understanding Box Lacrosse:
If you’re new to the sport, here are the basics. The objective is to shoot the ball into the opponent’s goal (4’9” wide, 4 feet high). The 30-second shot clock and six-on-six play create continuous action with minimal stoppages. Unlike ice hockey, players use short-shaft sticks and employ picks and screens to create space. Goals count as one point each, and power plays create high-scoring opportunities.
The physical nature of the game includes body checking, though penalties are called for high sticking, spearing, and boarding. The fast pace and frequent scoring make it instantly entertaining, even for those unfamiliar with lacrosse rules.
Arena Tips:
- Expect heavy traffic leaving the parking lot post-game; plan an extra 30-60 minutes for departure
- Restroom and concession lines can be lengthy at intermission; plan accordingly
- Winter months (December-February) require appropriate cold-weather gear for navigating outdoor parking areas
- Bag policy is strictly enforced; leave large bags at home or in your car
- The 100-level concourse offers convenient access to food, drinks, and restrooms during games
Accessibility:
Wheelchair seating is available throughout the arena with advance purchase through Ticketmaster. Gate 3 features elevators for upper-level access. Assistive listening devices are available at Guest Services (200-level, outside Section 201). Quiet spaces at Gate 2, Gate 3, and Gate 1 offer low-sensory environments for guests with sensory sensitivities. Sensory support bags with sunglasses, noise-reducing earmuffs, and fidget toys are available free at Guest Services.
Nearby Attractions
The Canadian Tire Centre sits in Kanata, a family-friendly neighbourhood with several leisure options within 10-20 minutes. Before or after the game, consider visiting:
- Tanger Outlets Ottawa: Large outdoor outlet mall for pre- or post-game shopping
- Kanata Centrum: Shopping and entertainment district with retail, restaurants, and cinema
- Walter Baker Park: Community park with sledding hill in winter and picnic areas
- South March Highlands Conservation Forest: Scenic hiking and biking trails in North Kanata
For post-game dining, Kanata offers excellent options including The Keg Steakhouse, Fratelli’s Italian restaurant, and Central Bierhaus for European-inspired gastropub fare. Crazyhorse is particularly busy post-game for those seeking country steakhouse cuisine with live music. For more Ottawa sports venues, check out our guides to Canadian Tire Centre and TD Place.
FAQ
Q: How long are Ottawa Black Bears games?
Box lacrosse games feature four 15-minute quarters with intermissions between periods. Plan for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours for the full game experience including pre-game activities and any overtime. The action is continuous within quarters, with the 30-second shot clock ensuring minimal stoppages.
Q: Are Black Bears games family-friendly?
Yes, Black Bears games are suitable for all ages. The fast-paced action and frequent scoring keep children engaged, and the arena offers family-friendly amenities. Unlike some professional sports venues, the atmosphere is enthusiastic without being rowdy, making it a great family outing.
Q: What’s the best way to get to Canadian Tire Centre without a car?
OC Transpo offers event-specific shuttle service via Routes 404 and 405 (Connexion 400 series). Travel time from downtown averages 45 minutes. The festive, communal atmosphere on return buses is part of the authentic game experience for many fans.
Q: Can I bring food or drinks into the arena?
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside Canadian Tire Centre. The arena offers multiple concession options throughout the concourse, including bars on various levels.
Q: When is the best time to arrive for a Black Bears game?
For the best parking options in Lots 5 or 6, arrive 60-90 minutes before game start. Lots begin filling 30 minutes before events. This also gives you time to explore the arena, grab food, and settle into your seats before puck drop.
Q: How does box lacrosse compare to field lacrosse?
Box lacrosse is played indoors on a hockey-rink-sized floor with six players per side (versus 10 in field lacrosse). The enclosed space, 30-second shot clock, and smaller goals create a faster, higher-scoring game with more physical play. Many consider it more accessible for new fans due to the non-stop action.
Q: Where can I buy Black Bears merchandise?
Team merchandise is available at the arena during games and through the official Ottawa Black Bears website. The Rock Shop at Hard Rock Casino Ottawa also carries select sports merchandise.
Q: Are there any promotions or discounts available?
Check the Black Bears website for game-day promotions and group ticket discounts. Season ticket packages offer the best per-game value. Follow @OttBlackBears on social media for exclusive offers and player appearance schedules.
Q: What happens if the game goes to overtime?
NLL overtime features sudden-death periods until a goal is scored. Overtime creates electric atmosphere in the arena, and all tickets include overtime play at no additional cost.
Q: Is there accessible seating available?
Yes, wheelchair seating is available throughout the arena with advance purchase. Accessible parking is available in Lot 3 with valid permits. The venue provides assistive listening devices, quiet spaces for guests with sensory sensitivities, and wheelchair escort services at Gate 3.
Final Thoughts
The Ottawa Black Bears have brought professional box lacrosse back to the capital after more than two decades, and early results suggest the team is here to stay. With an engaged fanbase averaging over 5,400 fans per game, competitive play from day one, and a meaningful connection to lacrosse’s Indigenous roots, the Black Bears offer something unique among Ottawa’s professional sports options.
Whether you’re a seasoned lacrosse fan or looking to try something new, a Black Bears game delivers fast-paced entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere. The combination of affordable tickets, accessible location at Canadian Tire Centre, and genuine excitement makes this one of Ottawa’s best sports experiences.
For tickets and schedule updates, visit Ottawa Black Bears or contact the team at 613-599-0113.
