NHL Constructs Massive Manitoba Cabin Setting for 2026 NHL Heritage Classic on Oct. 25

The National Hockey League (NHL) has given a first look at its planned transformation of Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg, Manitoba, for the 2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic outdoor game, featuring the Winnipeg Jets and Montreal Canadiens on Sunday, October 25 (7 p.m. ET; SN, TVAS, TNT, truTV and HBO Max).

The NHL will convert the stadium into a larger-than-life Canadian cabin retreat, with the rink serving as the centerpiece of an immersive NHL Heritage Classic experience. At the heart of the stadium sits the outdoor rink, framed by oversized rustic timber logs that create the appearance of a massive cabin wall. Surrounding the ice are iconic hockey and cabin-themed elements that celebrate the rivalry between the Canadiens and Jets. Oversized team crests and pennants, vintage-style memorabilia displays, framed jerseys, crossed wooden hockey sticks adorned with antlers, and decorative plaques are embedded throughout the wooden landscape, giving the field the feel of a curated hockey lodge.

In the foreground, a dramatic stone fireplace stretches across the front of the field, complete with a glowing fire that serves as the visual anchor of the design. Flanking the fireplace are giant decorative hockey skates representing both teams, reinforcing the nostalgic, winter-cabin atmosphere. The stonework, warm lighting, and natural textures contrast with the ice surface and create a welcoming gathering-place aesthetic.

Four entertainment stages are positioned along the front edge of the rink, each illuminated in different colors. These stages are designed to host the in-game musical acts, which will be announced in the coming days.

The Opening Ceremony, directed by NHL Entertainment, will formally begin with a performance of the Canadian National Anthem by Canadian bilingual singer-songwriter SoulBear. The Canadian Anthem Deaf Performer is Jordan Sangalang as part of the NHL's partnership with P-X-P. The Canadian flag will be unfurled by members of 17 Wing, 38 Canadian Brigade Group and from His Majesty Canadian Ship Chippawa in Winnipeg. Members of the 38 Canadian Brigade Group will present colors.

The Opening Ceremony will culminate in a ceremonial puck drop featuring fan-favorite Jets alumni Dustin Byfuglien, Andrew Ladd, and Blake Wheeler. An auxiliary rink- adorned with the Tim Hortons logo will host youth players from the Timbits Under 7 Hockey program throughout the game.

Byfuglien, Ladd and Wheeler will return to the field for the second intermission, joined by fellow former Jets players Grant Clitsome, Cody Eakin, Toby Enstrom, Eric Fehr, Ron Hainsey, Michael Hutchinson, Jason Kasdorf, Bryan Little, Derek Meech, Adam Pardy, Anthony Peluso, Mathieu Perreault, Tim Stapleton, Paul Stastny, and Mark Stuart for a special tribute celebrating the last 15 years of the Winnipeg Jets.

LINK:	https://www.sportsvideo.org/2026/10/20/nhl-constructs-massive-manitoba...
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