A general view of Raymond James Stadium during the NFL game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, September 29, 2024, in Tampa, Florida. The photo is credited to Doug Murray for the Associated Press.
Florida is set to make hockey history in 2026 as the NHL brings two outdoor games to the Sunshine State. The reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, will face the New York Rangers at Miami's Loan Depot Park on January 2, while the Tampa Bay Lightning will host the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on February 1.
This marks the first time outdoor NHL games will be played in Florida, a state known for its beaches and sunshine rather than ice rinks. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman highlighted the state’s growing passion for hockey, pointing out the success of both teams and the increasing popularity of the sport among youth and high schools. “Florida is truly a hockey hotbed,” Bettman remarked.
Long-Awaited Opportunity for Florida Teams
The Panthers and Lightning, who have represented the Eastern Conference in five consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, have been eager to host outdoor games for years. Their patience has paid off, with the league granting not one but two major events. Panthers President Matthew Caldwell called the announcement a long-overdue recognition of the teams' accomplishments and dedicated fan base.
Unique Challenges and Preparations
Outdoor hockey in Florida poses unique challenges, especially with warm January and February temperatures. Miami’s loanDepot Park, home of the Marlins, features a retractable roof, which will allow for precise climate control. The game will be played under an open roof at night to enhance the atmosphere.
In Tampa, the Lightning-Bruins game will take place at the open-air Raymond James Stadium. The NHL plans to install a temporary roof over the ice during setup and remove it just hours before the game begins.
Steve Mayer, the NHL’s president of content and events, acknowledged the logistical hurdles, but he framed them as opportunities to create something truly special. "We want to bring a winter wonderland to Florida," Mayer said, emphasizing the league’s commitment to delivering a memorable experience for fans.
A Growing Fan base
Florida’s enthusiasm for hockey has grown steadily over the years, fuelled by the Panthers’ and Lightning’s success. Lightning CEO Steve Griggs described the upcoming games as a “landmark event” for the local community, while Panthers General Manager Bill Zito expressed excitement about showcasing the sport to a broader audience.
These games will join the ranks of other iconic outdoor NHL matchups, becoming the 44th and 45th regular-season outdoor games in league history. For the Panthers, it will be their first outdoor appearance, while the Rangers, Bruins, and Lightning bring impressive outdoor records with them.
Summary
The NHL is making waves in Florida with two outdoor games scheduled for 2026. These games will showcase the Panthers and Lightning against legendary teams. With unique challenges and high stakes, these games aim to captivate fans and cement Florida’s status as a hockey hub.
