It is an annual event, sanctioned by Hockey Canada, that takes place each April.

The current champions are the Durham West Lightning, who won the 2022 Esso Cup in Okotoks, Alberta.

The Esso Cup follows Hockey Canada's standard six-team national championship format.

The exception to this was in 2022 when regional playoffs were cancelled and all branch champions were promoted directly to the national championship.

[2] Each year's gold medal game is televised nationally on TSN and RDS.