On January 2, 2026, the NHL Winter Classic will break new ground as it unfolds under the sunny skies of South Florida for the first time in its hallowed history. The Florida Panthers are set to host the New York Rangers at loanDepot Park, a venue typically reserved for the Miami Marlins’ baseball fixtures. This iconic event marks the Panthers' inaugural appearance in the Winter Classic, while the Rangers will make their sixth foray into the spectacle, adding another chapter to their storied outdoor game history.
The Rangers last took part in the Winter Classic back in 2018 against the Buffalo Sabres at New York's Citi Field, leaving fans eager for another outdoor showdown. For the Panthers, this debut represents more than just a game; it's a celebration of their ascension within the league. Their participation underscores the growing prominence of the Panthers in the NHL landscape, a rise punctuated by notable achievements, including their substantial playoff runs.
But the Winter Classic isn’t the only outdoor spectacle Floridians can anticipate. A month later, the Stadium Series is scheduled to make its grand appearance at Raymond James Stadium on February 1, 2026. The Tampa Bay Lightning will take on the formidable Boston Bruins in a matchup bound to captivate fans and showcase Florida’s thriving hockey culture.
The Lightning, who played the Nashville Predators in the 2022 Stadium Series—emerging victorious with a 3-2 win—are no strangers to the grandeur of outdoor games. Their ongoing success, combining Stanley Cup victories with regular-season dominance, mirrors the robust hockey atmosphere permeating Florida. The Bruins, on the other hand, bring a rich outdoor game tradition to the table; they claimed a triumphant victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins at the 2023 Winter Classic held at Boston's iconic Fenway Park.
Although outdoor games in Florida present unique challenges, especially with concerns about warmer temperatures, the NHL has embraced these ventures, fully aware of their potential to fortify the league's connection with a broader audience. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman encapsulated this adventurous spirit, noting, "Outdoor NHL games in the Sunshine State? Never let it be said that our League isn’t willing to accept a challenge."
Looking back at past events, the 2021 Stadium Series, particularly the game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights, experienced its share of weather-related interruptions due to afternoon sun. However, these challenges only fuel the anticipation and excitement surrounding these distinctive matches.
Florida's rise as a hockey epicenter is attributed to the relentless growth of the sport and the untiring passion of its teams and fans. Panthers and Lightning have both etched their names into the NHL's history since their introduction to the league in the early 1990s. Their achievements, including Stanley Cup championships, have transformed the Sunshine State into a burgeoning hub for the sport.
The state's stature in the hockey world was eloquently summarized by Commissioner Bettman: "Stanley Cups, strings of sellouts, and the exponential growth of youth and high school hockey throughout the state have demonstrated that Florida is a hockey hotbed." This sentiment captures the essence of both anticipation and pride surrounding Florida’s hosting of these marquee events.
As the Winter Classic and Stadium Series games approach, the spotlight will shine brightly on Florida, not only as a host but as a significant contributor to the NHL's ever-expanding tapestry of outdoor events. Both the Panthers and Lightning are poised to showcase their prowess on a grand stage, reinforcing Florida's burgeoning reputation as a formidable hockey region.