The NHL is making history in Miami. On January 2, 2026, the Florida Panthers will face the New York Rangers in the 2026 NHL Winter Classic at loanDepot park. This will be the first outdoor NHL game ever played in Florida. The league confirmed the news, making it a big moment for hockey fans in the Sunshine State. The game will also open the NHL’s 2025–26 outdoor schedule.
Florida Panthers led by Aleksander Barkov set to host New York Rangers stars in Miami
This Winter Classic game will feature two big teams. The Florida Panthers come in as the reigning Stanley Cup champions. Captain Aleksander Barkov is expected to lead the Panthers in front of a home crowd in a very new setting. Playing outdoors in Miami is something the team has never done before.
On the other side, the New York Rangers will bring their own star power. The Rangers, led by Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, are one of the NHL’s most popular teams. Their matchup with Florida adds extra excitement, as both teams are known for fast play and strong fan support.
The @FlaPanthers will play host to the @NYRangers in the state of Florida’s first regular-season outdoor game at the 2026 Discover NHL #WinterClassic.
📺: Jan. 2, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET on @NHL_On_TNT (HBO MAX, truTV), @Sportsnet and @TVASports. pic.twitter.com/iiQeBs6Xp1
— NHL Public Relations (@NHLPR) December 17, 2025
What makes this game even more special is the location. LoanDepot park, home of the Miami Marlins, will turn into an outdoor hockey rink for one night. The stadium is located at 1680 NW 5th Street in Miami, right in the heart of the city. For the NHL, this game is a big step in growing hockey in warm-weather markets.
NHL Winter Classic fan festival, Stanley Cup appearance, and how to watch live
The game day will not be just about hockey. Fans attending the Winter Classic will get a full day of events before puck drop. According to organizers, the 2026 Enterprise NHL PreGame will run from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. ET outside loanDepot park. Entry will be only for Winter Classic ticket holders.
The fan festival will include family-friendly hockey games, giveaways, food options, and live music. One of the biggest attractions will be a special appearance by the Stanley Cup, giving fans a rare chance to see the famous trophy up close.
When it’s time for the game, fans at home will have many viewing options. The Florida Panthers vs. New York Rangers Winter Classic will start at 8 p.m. ET. In the United States, the game will air on TNT, HBO Max, and truTV. In Canada, fans can watch on Sportsnet and TVA Sports.
This Panthers–Rangers clash will be the first of two NHL outdoor games scheduled for the 2025–26 season. For Miami, for Florida, and for the NHL, this night will mark a new chapter in hockey history.
