The NHL Stadium Series returns on 20 February 2027, taking professional ice hockey out of the arena and into an open-air stadium for one of the sport’s most visually spectacular events. The Stadium Series is part of the NHL’s ongoing commitment to outdoor hockey, showcasing the game in unique settings that celebrate the sport’s roots on frozen ponds and outdoor rinks.
What is the NHL Stadium Series?
The NHL Stadium Series is a collection of regular-season games played in outdoor venues, typically large American football or baseball stadiums. Launched in 2014 as a complement to the NHL Winter Classic, the Stadium Series brings hockey to non-traditional settings, creating a unique atmosphere that blends the intensity of NHL competition with the spectacle of an outdoor sporting event. The games count towards the regular-season standings, so the competitive stakes are genuine.
Outdoor hockey games present distinct challenges for players, including variable weather conditions, wind, natural light changes, and ice surface management. These factors add an element of unpredictability that makes each Stadium Series game a one-of-a-kind occasion.
When is the NHL Stadium Series?
The 2027 NHL Stadium Series is scheduled for 20 February 2027. The game typically takes place in the evening, with pre-game festivities, musical performances, and fan experiences running throughout the day. The exact puck drop time will be confirmed by the NHL closer to the event.
Where is the NHL Stadium Series?
The venue and participating teams for the 2027 Stadium Series will be announced by the NHL. Previous Stadium Series games have been held at iconic venues including Yankee Stadium in New York, Soldier Field in Chicago, Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, and Nissan Stadium in Nashville. The NHL selects venues that can accommodate large crowds and provide a dramatic backdrop for the event.
Key Contenders
The NHL selects teams for the Stadium Series based on a combination of factors including market size, rivalries, team competitiveness, and the host city. Popular franchises such as the New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, and Philadelphia Flyers have featured in past editions. The selected teams often have a pre-existing rivalry or geographic connection to the host venue, adding extra significance to the contest.
How to Watch the NHL Stadium Series
- United States: The Stadium Series is broadcast on ESPN or TNT, with streaming on ESPN+ or Max.
- Canada: Sportsnet or TSN provide live coverage.
- Global: NHL.tv offers international streaming access in most markets outside North America.
History and Records
The NHL’s outdoor game tradition began with the Heritage Classic in 2003, when the Edmonton Oilers hosted the Montreal Canadiens at Commonwealth Stadium in front of 57,167 fans. The Winter Classic followed in 2008, and the Stadium Series was introduced in 2014 to expand the outdoor game programme. The largest crowd for an NHL game was 104,173 at Michigan Stadium for the 2014 Winter Classic between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings. The Stadium Series has since become an annual highlight of the NHL calendar, with each edition drawing tens of thousands of fans to experience hockey in an entirely different setting.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for the NHL Stadium Series are available through the NHL’s official ticketing partners, Ticketmaster, and the participating teams’ box offices. Stadium venues typically accommodate between 40,000 and 70,000 fans, significantly more than a standard NHL arena. Despite the larger capacity, tickets sell quickly due to the novelty and prestige of the event. Premium packages including hospitality and VIP access are also available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NHL Stadium Series?
The Stadium Series is a collection of regular-season NHL games played in outdoor stadiums, offering fans a unique hockey experience in large, open-air venues.
Does the Stadium Series game count in the standings?
Yes. Stadium Series games are regular-season contests that count towards the league standings, so the competitive intensity is genuine.
Where will the 2027 Stadium Series be held?
The venue and participating teams will be announced by the NHL. Previous editions have been held at major stadiums across the United States.
How is outdoor ice maintained during the game?
The NHL uses advanced refrigeration technology to maintain the ice surface in outdoor settings. Ice crews monitor conditions throughout the game, and intermissions may include additional ice maintenance to ensure quality of play.
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