The Edmonton Oilers 50/50 Raffle: A Winning Tradition

The Edmonton Oilers 50/50 raffle has become a significant part of the Oilers’ game-day experience, and indeed, a major philanthropic force in the community. More than just a lottery, it’s a well-loved tradition that blends the excitement of hockey with the opportunity to contribute to charitable causes.

The premise is simple: Fans purchase raffle tickets during Oilers home games, and half of the total jackpot goes to one lucky winner. The other half is donated to the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF), which then distributes the funds to a variety of organizations supporting youth-related initiatives throughout northern and central Alberta.

What sets the Oilers 50/50 apart is the sheer scale of its jackpots. Often reaching millions of dollars, these raffles have broken records and garnered national attention. During the 2020 playoffs, due to online accessibility expanding participation beyond the arena, jackpots soared to unprecedented heights. This resulted in life-changing sums of money for winners and a substantial boost to the EOCF’s ability to fund impactful programs.

The EOCF’s impact is far-reaching. They support initiatives focused on providing resources and opportunities for young people in areas like education, health and wellness, and youth hockey development. By contributing to the 50/50, fans are directly impacting the lives of children and families in the region. The raffles have enabled the EOCF to fund numerous projects, including building new hockey rinks, supporting literacy programs, and providing access to mental health services.

The popularity of the Oilers 50/50 is fueled by several factors. First, the chance to win a substantial cash prize is undeniably appealing. Second, the ease of participation, both at the arena and increasingly online, makes it accessible to a broad audience. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, fans are drawn to the raffle because they know their contribution is going towards a worthy cause. The sense of community and the opportunity to give back while enjoying the excitement of an Oilers game creates a powerful draw.

Beyond the financial impact, the Oilers 50/50 has fostered a sense of unity among fans. It’s a shared experience that connects people through their love of hockey and their desire to support the community. It has become intertwined with the team’s identity and its connection to the city. It’s more than just a raffle; it’s a symbol of the Oilers’ commitment to giving back and a testament to the generosity of its fans.