Get ready for outdoor hockey in Florida! Watch the Boston Bruins battle the Tampa Bay Lightning at Raymond James Stadium for the 2026 NHL Stadium Series on Feb 1. Find out how to live stream the game on ESPN and get ticket details here!
2026 NHL Stadium Series: A Hockey Spectacle Under the Florida Sky
The 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series™ promises to deliver one of the most exciting spectacles in professional hockey history. The Boston Bruins will face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the iconic Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.
This marks the first-ever outdoor NHL game in Florida, adding another remarkable chapter to the league’s growing tradition of open-air showdowns.
Event Details:
- Event: 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series™
- Matchup: Boston Bruins vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
- Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026
- Venue: Raymond James Stadium
- City/State: Tampa, Florida
- TV Broadcast: ESPN (U.S.), Sportsnet & TVA Sports (Canada)
- Game Start Time: TBD (expected at night local time)
The NHL Stadium Series has always celebrated the beauty of outdoor hockey — where skill, atmosphere, and spectacle come together. The 2026 edition, sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union, carries special meaning.
It’s not just a game; it’s a celebration of hockey’s growing popularity in warm-weather states, proving the sport’s magic transcends ice-cold climates.
Teams in Focus
Boston Bruins: Tradition, Passion, and Physical Play
The Boston Bruins are a team defined by their grit and history. With more than a century of NHL legacy, they bring unmatched intensity to every contest. Led by experienced veterans and rising stars, Boston will aim to prove that cold-weather hockey can dominate even under the Florida sun.
Tampa Bay Lightning: Florida’s Hockey Powerhouse
The Lightning have been a symbol of excellence in modern hockey — with multiple Stanley Cups and an electrifying offensive style. Playing in their home state, Tampa Bay will have the crowd’s energy on their side, ready to light up the scoreboard under the open night sky.
Venue Spotlight: Raymond James Stadium
Raymond James Stadium, home of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is about to undergo an incredible transformation. Turning a football field into a full-sized ice rink is no small feat, but the NHL has mastered this over the years.
The venue can host over 65,000 fans, making it one of the largest stages ever for an outdoor hockey game. Expect a stunning visual display, fireworks, and special effects that make this event feel larger than life.
Date, Time, and Weather Conditions
The puck drops on Sunday, February 1, 2026, with the exact time still to be determined. However, reports suggest it will be a night game, allowing cooler temperatures and a perfect setting under the stars.
February evenings in Tampa typically hover around 60°F (15°C) — cool enough for stable ice conditions yet comfortable for fans in attendance.
Game Significance
This game isn’t just about two powerhouse teams — it’s about making history.
It marks the first outdoor NHL game ever played in Florida, proving that hockey’s reach knows no bounds.
For the NHL, it’s a statement about the league’s future — expanding its cultural footprint while honoring its traditional outdoor roots.
Ticket Information
Tickets are already available through authorized sellers like Ticketmaster, the NHL’s official ticketing partner. Fans can also explore NHL Experiences packages for premium access, which may include exclusive seating, hospitality options, and behind-the-scenes tours.
Prices vary based on seating, but given the event’s exclusivity, demand is extremely high. Booking early is strongly recommended for diehard fans.
How to Watch the 2026 NHL Stadium Series
U.S. Broadcast
Hockey fans in the United States can watch the entire event live on ESPN, which will provide extensive pre-game and post-game coverage.
Canadian Broadcast
For Canadian audiences, Sportsnet and TVA Sports will deliver full coverage, ensuring fans north of the border won’t miss a second of the action.
Live Stream Options
For those who prefer streaming, several reliable platforms will carry the event:
- ESPN+ (U.S. viewers)
- Sportsnet NOW (Canada)
- NHL.TV (international subscribers)
These services will offer HD streams, multiple camera angles, and on-demand highlights for those watching from around the world.
Player Matchups to Watch
Every great game has its defining matchups, and this one is no exception:
- Brad Marchand vs. Nikita Kucherov – A battle of elite wingers
- Charlie McAvoy vs. Victor Hedman – Two defensive titans anchoring their blue lines
- Jeremy Swayman vs. Andrei Vasilevskiy – A goaltending duel for the ages
Each of these faceoffs could tilt the game’s balance, making this showdown a tactical chess match on ice.
Fan Experience
From fireworks and live music to interactive fan zones, the Stadium Series always delivers beyond the ice.
Expect pre-game concerts, team-themed merchandise, and fan engagement areas where visitors can test their slapshot or pose with the Stanley Cup.
The NHL aims to turn this game into a festival of hockey, especially for fans who rarely experience outdoor ice events.
The Outdoor Game Challenge
Outdoor hockey presents unique challenges — from fluctuating ice quality to unpredictable weather.
Both teams will need to adjust to potential humidity and wind. But that’s what makes these games magical: it’s hockey in its purest form, raw and unpredictable.
Historical Context
Since its inception in 2014, the NHL Stadium Series has produced unforgettable moments — from snow-covered rinks to record-breaking crowds.
This 2026 edition adds a tropical twist, symbolizing how far the game has come since its frozen-lake origins.
Predictions and Expectations
Experts predict a fast-paced, high-scoring affair given Tampa’s offensive firepower and Boston’s physical playstyle.
While the Lightning may have the home-field advantage, the Bruins’ resilience makes this matchup too close to call. Expect thrilling overtime possibilities and highlight-reel moments.
The 2026 NHL Stadium Series between the Boston Bruins and Tampa Bay Lightning will go down as a landmark event in NHL history.
An open-air hockey night in Florida — a dream turned into reality. Whether you’re watching live at Raymond James Stadium or streaming from home, it’s an experience no hockey fan should miss.
FAQs
1. What is the NHL Stadium Series?
The Stadium Series is a set of outdoor games that showcase NHL teams in unique venues like football or baseball stadiums.
2. Why is the 2026 game special?
It’s the first-ever outdoor NHL game held in Florida, marking a milestone in the league’s expansion efforts.
3. Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster and NHL Experiences for official and secure purchases.
4. Will there be live streaming options?
Yes! Fans can watch live on ESPN+, Sportsnet NOW, and NHL.TV depending on their region.
5. What time does the game start?
The exact start time is TBD, but it’s expected to be a night game for optimal conditions.
