25th Anniversary Of The Carolina Hurricanes, Celebrated In Outdoor NHL Game
- Ingrid Jones
- Southern USA
- Sports
- Trending
- February 18, 2023
Today the Carolina Hurricanes will partake in their first outdoor NHL game as they host the 2023 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series game against the Washington Capitals. The game will be played at NC State’s Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is expected to draw a large crowd of hockey fans from all over the region.
The NHL Stadium Series is a collection of outdoor games played each year in unique venues across North America, with a focus on showcasing the sport of hockey in front of a larger audience. These games provide an opportunity for NHL teams to compete in a different setting while also generating excitement and economic benefits for the host community.
The 2023 game in Raleigh is expected to be the largest outdoor hockey game ever played, with a projected attendance of over 60,000 fans. This represents a significant increase in capacity compared to previous Stadium Series games, and highlights the growing popularity of hockey in the southeastern United States.
In addition to the game itself, the Carolina Hurricanes Fan Fest will be held on the same day to celebrate the team’s 25 years in North Carolina. The festival will feature appearances by Hurricanes alumni, as well as street hockey games, local vendors, food trucks, and live music. This event is expected to draw additional visitors to the area, further contributing to the local economy.
According to projections, the NHL Stadium Series game and Fan Fest are expected to generate $12.4 million in total economic impact for the region. This includes spending on accommodations, transportation, dining, and entertainment by visitors from outside the area, as well as increased business for local vendors and restaurants.
The economic benefits of hosting an NHL Stadium Series game are significant, and extend beyond just the immediate impact of the event itself. The exposure and excitement generated by these games can help to boost the profile of the host city and region, making it more attractive to tourists and businesses.
Image source Canes Twitter feed