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Welcome! This page is dedicated to candlepin bowling, a sport exclusive to New England and Maritime Canada. If you're looking for heavy bowling balls with holes in them or silly-looking pins, you've come to the wrong place. Otherwise, come on in, discover, and enjoy this unique activity! What makes candlepin bowling different from regular bowling?The game is played on the same lanes as regular "tenpin" bowling, but fundamental differences separate the two variations. First of all, you get three balls per frame, rather than two. Second, the balls fit in the palm of your hand and only weigh up to two pounds, seven ounces. The pins are almost 16 inches tall and are shaped like cylinders. Third, and most interesting, pins knocked down that remain on the lane are in play as "wood". This often makes for easier - and sometimes more frustrating - shots. What is the official governing body of the sport?The International Candlepin Bowling Association (ICBA) governs all sanctioned play in Maine, Massachusetts, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, and Nova Scotia. The ICBA sets the rules, determines world records, and maintains lane and equipment standards. Several state and provincial organizations, such as the Massachusetts Bowling Association (MBA) and the New Hampshire Candlepin Bowling Association (NHCBA) run tournaments and enforce the rules and standards of the game in conjunction with the ICBA. Most bowling centers are sanctioned by the ICBA and / or state and provincial organizations. They often display the official sticker at the entranceway of the building, signifying that scores bowled on those lanes are legal and in accordance with the international rules. Where can I bowl candlepins?Check out this directory of candlepin bowling centers. This list includes directions, the number of lanes for each center, Web site URLs, and the type of scoring system each center has (if available). Since the author has already done a hell of a job putting all that together, I recommend you go there to find information. back to top
Last updated 7 June 2001
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