Market Insights

Top 8 Most Popular Sports of Canada in 2025

February 28, 2025

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Most popular sports in Canada, including golf, curling, basketball, baseball, soccer, lacrosse, and ice hockey, with the text 'MOST POPULAR SPORTS IN CANADA' and 'Bungalow Finder' branding.

Canada boasts a rich sports scene, and many games there appeal to millions. Sports are crucial in Canadian life, from the ice rinks to the soccer fields. The scene of popular sports in Canada will keep changing in 2025 to reflect the country's several interests. Discover what makes each of Canada's top 8 most popular sports in 2025 unique in this blog by Bungalow Finder.

What's Canada's Sports Culture Like?

Sports in Canada are a fundamental component of the country's identity, not only a pastime. Canadians embrace sports to promote unity and pride, having a rich background in winter sports and rising excitement for other athletic events. Reflecting the changing tastes of the nation, the sports scene in 2025 features both classic favorites and newly arising events.

Top 8 Most Popular Sports of Canada in 2025

Let's explore the most beloved sports Canadians enjoy, from the grassy soccer fields to the frozen arenas of hockey: 

Rank

Sport

Key Highlights

1

Ice Hockey

National winter sport, 7 NHL teams, deep cultural roots

2

Lacrosse

National summer sport, Indigenous origins, pro leagues

3

Soccer

Growing popularity, 2026 World Cup co-host, youth focus

4

Baseball

Toronto Blue Jays in MLB, strong community programs

5

Basketball

Canadian NBA talent, Raptors' impact, local league growth

6

Tennis

Rising stars, national development, global tournaments

7

Curling

Community involvement, national competitions, inclusive

8

Golf

Accessible sport, famous courses, Canadian PGA success

1. Ice Hockey

Ice hockey remains the undisputed king of sports in Canada. Officially the national winter sport, the National Hockey League (NHL) features seven Canadian teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens. Growing youth programs and more success abroad help ice hockey inspire Canadians from coast to coast.

Hockey became a passion early in Canada. Many kids begin skating at three years old, and young hockey leagues are a big part of community life. Millions of people in Canada still enjoy Hockey Night when they view their preferred teams playing weekly.

Key Highlights:

  • Official national winter sport
  • 7 Canadian teams in the NHL
  • Significant youth participation
  • Deep cultural significance

2. Lacrosse

Lacrosse is the official summer sport in Canada, and it has a particular meaning.

Originally from Indigenous groups, this fast-paced game blends physicality and ability. The sport is governed by the Canadian Lacrosse Association, which also guarantees its expansion over the nation. Lacrosse will continue to flourish in 2025, with growing media coverage and professional leagues taking hold.

In Canada, lacrosse is a link to the Indigenous background rather than only a game. Played both amateur and professional, the National Lacrosse League (NLL) has an increasing following of fans. School courses also feature the sport, so motivating young involvement.

Key Highlights:

  • Official summer sport for the country
  • firmly anchored in Indigenous tradition
  • growing professional leagues
  • Getting more young people involved 

3. Soccer

Soccer's popularity in Canada has surged in recent years. Particularly following their performances at important events, the Canadian Men's and Women's National Teams have attracted international respect. Young involvement is still high, and professional leagues such as the Canadian Premier League (CPL) are helping soccer to flourish.

The adequate bid Canada made to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup has driven soccer even more. Thanks to rising facility and training program investment, soccer is more readily available than ever. Additionally, Canadian soccer players create waves in top European leagues, motivating the next generation.

Key Highlights:

  • Growing global success
  • Young people's thriving involvement
  • Growth in the Canadian Premier League
  • Co-hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026

4. Baseball

Many Canadians still hold baseball firmly in their hearts. Canada's only Major League Baseball (MLB) team, the Toronto Blue Jays, still attracts enormous support. The grassroots initiatives of baseball guarantee the sport's continuous appeal by inspiring community involvement.

Local leagues flourish in the warmer months, even beyond professional baseball. Many towns hold summer baseball events, giving young athletes chances to hone their abilities—the sport's nostalgic appeal and international competition help to keep it among Canada's top choices.

Key Highlights:

  • Toronto Blue Jays in MLB
  • Strong grassroots programs
  • Historic relevance
  • People-driven involvement in communities

5. Basketball

Basketball's Canadian roots trace back to James Naismith, the sport's inventor. The Toronto Raptors' 2019 NBA Championship triumph set off a basketball frenzy around Canada. Basketball is becoming increasingly popular as more Canadian players join the NBA and robust young programs take the front stage.

The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) expansion has also given home players a stage to excel. Furthermore, the sport's accessibility makes it a favorite in cities with familiar community courts.

Key Highlights:

  • Originated in Canada
  • Toronto Raptors' NBA influence
  • Increasing Canadian NBA talent
  • Domestic league growth

6. Tennis

Thanks in part to players like Bianca Andreescu and Denis Shapovalov, tennis in Canada has expanded. Tennis Canada backs amateur and professional-level development initiatives. In 2025, tennis will be a popular sport with major events and upcoming stars.

There are many opportunities for leisure play at neighborhood public courts and tennis clubs. All age groups enjoy the sport, and big events like the Rogers Cup draw international interest.

Key Highlights:

  • Rising Canadian tennis stars
  • National development programs
  • Increasing public interest
  • Prestigious tournaments 

7. Curling

Curling is a favorite winter activity, especially in Alberta and Manitoba. Curling has a special place in Canadian society since it is closely connected to community leagues and national events such as the Brier. The sport will still draw new players and supporters in 2025. Curling's popularity is much influenced by its inclusiveness.

Since many local curling clubs have beginner programs, this winter activity is readily available to everyone.

Key Highlights:

  • Strong community involvement
  • National competitions
  • Historical roots in Canada
  • Inclusive and beginner-friendly 

8. Golf

With courses ranging from public greens to world-class private clubs, golf enjoys great appeal all around Canada. The sport is a popular pastime for all ages since it is so accessible. The success of Canadian golfers in the PGA and LPGA courses keeps the game at the forefront.

The slow speed and social aspect of golf appeal. From weekend warriors to aspirant pros, Canadians embrace the sport year-round in areas with milder temperatures or indoor facilities.

Key Highlights:

  • Accessible to all ages
  • Renowned golf courses
  • Canadian success on international tours
  • Social and leisure appeal 

Why Sports Are Important in Canadian Society

Sports greatly influence the shape of Canadian society. Beyond entertainment, sports promote physical and mental health, strengthen communities, and provide a potent vehicle for cultural interaction. Sports allow people from many backgrounds to come together and help to remove social barriers.

Events like the Olympics and World Championships highlight Canadian ability on a worldwide stage, promoting unity and success. Through media coverage, job creation, and travel, sports also greatly boost the economy. Significant sporting events attract guests from all around, supporting local businesses and raising community investments.

The Future of Sports in Canada

Canada's cosmopolitan population allows fresh sports from many cultures to become well-known. As digital platforms keep expanding, fan involvement is expected to change and provide fresh means of real-time sports experience. As Canada keeps embracing a dynamic sports scene, inclusion and accessibility will remain the main areas of attention.

Conclusion

The sports scene in Canada is as diverse and dynamic as the country itself. From the sunny fairways of golf to the ice-covered arenas of hockey, every sport adds to Canada's rich tapestry. These top eight sports will still unite communities, inspire athletes, and make the country proud in 2025. Canada's sports scene has something for everyone regardless of your level of interest—that of a spectator or a player.