The tradition of the bonspiel is deeply rooted in the history of curling.
The word comes from the Scots language, with "bon" referring to a gathering or special occasion and "spiel" meaning a game or contest. In its earliest form, a bonspiel was more than simply a curling tournament—it was an opportunity for curlers from different clubs and communities to come together for friendly competition, fellowship, and celebration.
As curling spread from Scotland to Canada and throughout the northern United States, the bonspiel became an important part of curling culture. Teams would travel to neighboring clubs, often spending an entire weekend competing on the ice while enjoying meals, social events, and the camaraderie that has always been central to the sport.
While competition was important, the spirit of the bonspiel emphasized sportsmanship, friendship, and welcoming curlers from near and far.
The Bonspiel Today Today
Bonspiels continue that same tradition. Some are highly competitive, while others are designed primarily for fun and fellowship, but all share the common goal of bringing curlers together.
A bonspiel is a celebration of the sport—an opportunity to compete, meet new people, reconnect with old friends, and enjoy the unique community that makes curling special.
For the Wausau Curling Club, hosting a bonspiel is a chance to carry that tradition forward. We welcome curlers to our club not only to compete, but to experience the friendship, hospitality, and camaraderie that have defined curling for generations.
On the ice, we compete; off the ice, we celebrate the sport and the people who make it great.