The excitement level is high in Winkler this weekend, as the city continues celebrating Hometown Hockey.

Winkler once again welcomes legendary sportscaster Ron MacLean, as he and Tara Slone broadcast the pre-game show live from Main St., before the outdoor viewing party of the Winnipeg Jets and Columbus Blue Jackets.

His second time in Winkler, MacLean says his experience back in 2008 was a fantastic one learning about the area, and its culture.

"It was just a great four days, a real eye-opener to understand the history of a Mennonite community. Tacos in a bag at the rink was just amazing. To find out in the early 20s, over 3,000 Rheinlander Mennonites fled to Chihuahua, Mexico because they were pacifists and spoke German, they were essentially ostracized after WW1. Then they came back with this fantastic Mexican cuisine you find in Winkler, who knew. I remember learning a lot which was special."

MacLean says the process when considering host communities for Hometown Hockey is fascinating, but space is always a factor when considering the large entourage and number of tents they travel with.

MacLean says the goal of Hometown Hockey is to showcase the ways people live with each other across the country, and the passion many Canadians feel for hockey.

"I play Beer League hockey Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and it doesn't take long to remember what you love about the game when you play with your buddies. I Think that's what it's all about; we're all rink rats in this country at heart."

Other events throughout this weekend include Tara Slone visiting The Ens Heritage Homestead, free concerts, Stanley Cup viewings, and chances to meet NHL alumni.

Road closures on Main St. from Mountain Ave to City Hall, along with Stanley Ave from 4th St. to 6th St. will reopen Monday, March 4 at 1:00 a.m.