FRAMINGHAM — The Framingham Police Department and Framingham Fire Department will once again face off in their annual “Battle of the Badges” ice hockey game on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. at Loring Arena, continuing a long-standing community tradition that brings together first responders and residents for an afternoon of friendly competition.
The matchup features members of both departments stepping onto the ice in a spirited rivalry that has been played on and off for decades. This year marks the 18th consecutive game, with the Police Department entering on a strong run, having won the last 10 matchups.
The event is free to attend and is designed to give back to the community while creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Fans can expect a lively crowd, team pride on full display and a competitive game between two groups that work side by side every day.
Beyond the competition, the event offers a unique opportunity for residents to connect with local first responders in a relaxed setting. Instead of meeting during emergencies or stressful situations, community members can engage with police officers and firefighters in a positive and celebratory environment.
Traditions such as custom-built goal sirens and enthusiastic fan sections add to the excitement, making the “Battle of the Badges” a standout event each year. The game has also become a lead-in to the Hero’s Cup tournament in June, further connecting Framingham’s first responders to a broader network of teams nationwide.
For additional information, visit this Q&A featuring Sergeant Ryan Porter of the Framingham Police Department’s Bureau of Public Information:
- Ryan, this is such a great community tradition — for listeners who may not be familiar, what is the Battle of the Badges all about?
The Battle of the Badges is an annual matchup between the Framingham Police and Framingham Fire hockey teams. We work closely together every day, often responding side by side on calls for service, and this game gives our city’s first responders, their families, and the community we serve a chance to come together and enjoy a great afternoon of hockey.
- This year’s matchup features the Framingham Police Department taking on the Framingham Fire Department. How big is this rivalry, and what makes it so fun for the community?
There’s a natural rivalry between police and fire. It’s a friendly, brotherhood-type competition, spirited at times, but at the end of the day, we’re all on the same team. These teams have played each other on and off for decades, and this year marks the 18th consecutive matchup. The trophy has changed hands over the years, but the Police Department has been on a strong run lately, winning the last 10. That said, every year is a new opportunity, and both teams come ready to compete.
- The event is happening at Loring Arena on March 21st at 2:30 PM. What can people expect if they come out to watch?
The arena really comes alive for this game. Fans typically line up behind their respective teams, creating a fun and energetic atmosphere. Both sides bring custom-built goal sirens and a lot of passion. It’s a family-friendly event with plenty of excitement, and you’ll see some players who still have a lot of skill left in the tank.
- One of the best parts — admission is free. Why was it important to make this a free, community-friendly event?
Both departments are built on public service, and making this a free event is one way we can give back to the community. While we all enjoy playing the game, this is really about creating an opportunity for people to come out, have fun, and connect with us in a positive way.
- Events like this really bring people together. What does it mean for both departments to connect with the community in a setting like this?
It’s a chance to interact with the community in a relaxed, positive environment outside of our normal roles. Most of the time, people encounter us when something is wrong or during a stressful situation. Events like this allow us to connect in a different way, where we can engage, have fun, and provide something enjoyable for the community.
- Beyond the competition on the ice, what are some of the moments or traditions that make this event special year after year?
The goal sirens are definitely a point of pride for both teams. They’re custom-built to be as loud and over-the-top as possible, and they add a lot of personality to the game. This matchup has also become a great lead-in to the Hero’s Cup tournament in early June, which brings together teams from across the country.
- For the players themselves — police vs. fire — is it more about bragging rights, or is there a bigger purpose behind the game?
There’s definitely pride and bragging rights on the line. Many of the players have long histories of playing together, whether as teammates or opponents, and now they represent two proud departments. The winning team earns a year of bragging rights, while the other spends the next year motivated to bring the trophy back.
- For anyone reading this right now, why should they make it a point to head down to Loring Arena this Saturday and be part of the action?
It’s a fun, family-friendly event that’s free to attend, and it’s a great opportunity to see your city’s first responders take the ice and compete. It’s all about community, competition, and a little bit of pride as Police and Fire battle it out for the title of public safety champions.
