The NHL is breaking new ground with its announcement of hosting two outdoor hockey games in Florida in 2026. The league is set to bring the thrill of outdoor hockey to the Sunshine State, with the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning gearing up to host these historic events.
Unveiling the Schedule and Teams
The first outdoor game will take place at LoanDepot Park in Miami, where the Florida Panthers will face off against the New York Rangers on January 2, 2026. This game will be part of the Winter Classic, an annual event that showcases outdoor hockey at its finest.
A month later, on a grander scale, the Tampa Bay Lightning will host the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa as part of the Stadium Series. This game promises to be a spectacle under the open sky, with the ice set up in the heart of the football stadium.
The Challenge and Preparation
Hosting outdoor hockey in a warm-weather state like Florida presents unique challenges. To prevent the ice from melting, the NHL will utilize the roof of LoanDepot Park in Miami until the game begins. Once the puck drops, the roof will open, allowing the game to be played outdoors, illuminated by stadium lights.
In Tampa, where Raymond James Stadium lacks a roof, the league plans to construct a roof structure over the ice, ensuring that the game can proceed as planned. This ambitious undertaking will require meticulous planning and execution, with the league estimating a two-week setup time for each stadium.
Embracing the Growth of Hockey in Florida
Despite the risks involved, the NHL is confident that the passion for hockey in Florida makes these outdoor games a worthwhile endeavor. The success of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Florida Panthers on the ice has translated into a surge in interest and participation in the sport.
The growth of hockey in Florida is evident in the increasing number of registered players, with a 212% rise since 1999. The NHL reports that girls’ hockey participation in Florida has also seen a significant uptick, highlighting the sport’s appeal across all demographics.
Steve Mayer, president of NHL content and events, emphasized the importance of these outdoor games in showcasing the vibrant hockey culture in Florida. Despite the challenges, the league is committed to bringing the excitement of outdoor hockey to fans in the Sunshine State.
As the NHL pushes the boundaries of traditional hockey by venturing into uncharted territory, the upcoming outdoor games in Florida promise to be a celebration of the sport’s enduring popularity and the state’s growing influence in the hockey world.
