Winter Classic game: The NHL announced Wednesday that two major outdoor games will take place in Florida in 2026. The Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers will face the New York Rangers in the Winter Classic at LoanDepo Park in Miami on Jan. 2, 2026, while the Tampa Bay Lightning will host the Boston Bruins in a Stadium Series game at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Feb. 1, 2026.
A milestone for hockey in Florida
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman highlighted the rapid growth of hockey in Florida and the sport’s increasing popularity.
“The Stanley Cup, a flurry of sold-out tickets and the rapid growth of youth and high school hockey throughout the state have demonstrated that Florida is a stronghold for hockey,” Bettman said. “Outdoor NHL games in the Sunshine State? Never let it be said that our league isn’t ready to take on the challenge.”
The Panthers and Lightning, who have represented the Eastern Conference in five consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, have long requested outdoor games in Florida. Now, the NHL has answered their call.
Excitement from Florida teams
Panthers president Matthew Caldwell expressed his excitement for the event, saying, “I think it’s unprecedented to celebrate great Original Six teams against these two franchises. And I think our time has come. We deserve that outdoor game, and we’re excited to host it right here locally.”
Lightning CEO Steve Griggs shared similar sentiments: “We’re very excited to host this historic event in Bolts Nation and the Tampa Bay community.”
Venue Winter Classic game
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LoanDepoe Park: Home to MLB’s Miami Marlins, this stadium has a retractable roof and can seat about 37,000 people. The Winter Classic game between the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers will be played at night with the roof open, and the air conditioning adjusted for proper conditions.
Raymond James Stadium: Home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, this NFL stadium can accommodate about 65,000 fans, with additional capacity available if needed. The Stadium Series game featuring the Tampa Bay Lightning and Boston Bruins will include a temporary roof over the ice surface, which will be removed shortly before the game.
Historical context
These games will mark the 44th and 45th outdoor regular-season contests in NHL history, further cementing the league’s tradition of showcasing hockey in unique settings. The New York Rangers have compiled an impressive 5-0 record in outdoor games, reflecting their ability to succeed in these high-profile encounters. Similarly, the Boston Bruins have excelled by winning four of their five outdoor games. The Tampa Bay Lightning, who have one outdoor game to their name, have remained undefeated in these special events.
For the Florida Panthers, the Winter Classic games will be a historic first as they will make their outdoor game debut, adding an exciting new chapter to their franchise history. This milestone event gives the Panthers the opportunity to showcase their talents on a grand stage, underscoring their status as Stanley Cup champions and their growing prominence in the NHL.
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Looking ahead
NHL president of content and events Steve Mayer acknowledged the logistical challenges of hosting outdoor games in Florida’s warm climate but emphasized the league’s confidence and enthusiasm. “I think we love it. And it’s not a challenge. It’s really an opportunity for us,” Mayer said.
These historic events, including the Winter Classic game, will bring unparalleled excitement to Florida while shining a spotlight on the state’s rapidly growing hockey culture. The Winter Classic game featuring the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers will offer fans a chance to witness history in the making, as the Panthers make their much-anticipated outdoor game debut.
Hosting the Winter Classic game in Florida also demonstrates the NHL’s commitment to expanding its reach and celebrating hockey in non-traditional markets, paving the way for even more growth and enthusiasm for the sport. This milestone is not only a testament to the success of Florida’s hockey teams but also a unique opportunity to bring the game to a broader global audience.
