In a groundbreaking shift for the NHL, the sunshine-drenched state of Florida is set to host its first-ever Winter Classic. For hockey fans in the region, January 2, 2026, will be a date to remember as the Florida Panthers make their debut in this prestigious event, squaring off against the seasoned New York Rangers at loanDepot Park, a venue primarily known for baseball as home to the Miami Marlins.
While the Panthers will be stepping onto the outdoor ice for their inaugural Winter Classic, the Rangers are no strangers to this celebrated tradition, marking their sixth appearance. This return promises to rekindle excitement similar to their last Winter Classic encounter against the Buffalo Sabres at Citi Field in 2018.
Adding to the hockey celebration, Florida is also lined up to host another major NHL outdoor event—the Stadium Series. Scheduled to take place on February 1, 2026, at Raymond James Stadium, this event will feature an exciting clash between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Boston Bruins.
The Lightning have demonstrated a flair for these outdoor exhibitions, having previously triumphed against the Nashville Predators in the 2022 Stadium Series. Their 3-2 victory further solidified their prowess and paved the way for this upcoming face-off against the Bruins. On the other hand, the Boston Bruins are entering their sixth outdoor game—having etched a memorable victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins at the 2023 Winter Classic at Fenway Park.
Florida's newfound status as a hub for NHL spectacles reflects broader trends within the state that extend beyond these high-profile games. Stanley Cup victories by both the Panthers and the Lightning have not only fueled enthusiasm for professional hockey but have also sparked exponential growth in youth and high school hockey. As NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman pointed out, "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."
The path to these landmark events hasn't been without challenges, particularly concerning hosting games in warmer climates. The NHL has navigated weather-related hurdles before, such as during the 2021 Stadium Series where a match between the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights was briefly paused due to intense sunlight.
Nevertheless, the decision to bring outdoor NHL games to Florida underscores the league's willingness to embrace challenges. Bettman candidly remarked, "Outdoor NHL games in the Sunshine State? Never let it be said that our League isn’t willing to accept a challenge."
Both the Panthers and Lightning have come a long way since joining the NHL in the early 1990s, embodying the resilience and passion that have elevated Florida into a prominent position in the hockey world. These events, set against the state’s unique backdrop, promise to blend the thrill of outdoor hockey with Florida’s vibrant sporting culture, offering fans both old and new an unforgettable experience.