NHL Winter Classic
Why is the NHL winter classic played outdoors? Here’s how the tradition started
We all know that the Winter Classic is played in the open air - but why?
Everyone knows and looks forward to the NHL Winter Classic, as it is one of the main spectacles of sport in the US. This year, as the ball drops on December 31, the St. Louis Blues (17-17-4) and Chicago Blackhawks (12-23-2) will go head to head in Chicago at the home of the Cubs, one of the most emblematic and storied sides in history.
The Winter Classic, a permanent fixture on the calendar in NHL since January 1st, 2008 - when the Pittsburgh Penguins went to Buffalo - has always been played outside, a fundamental element in attracting curious eyes from around the world. Hockey is played outside - but ice hockey?
Why is the Winter Classic played outside?
The answer to the above question is simple: the game has its roots as an annual outdoor spectacle around the New Year holiday period that celebrates the (mysterious) origins of the sport of hockey.
Since then, the game has become a highly-anticipated date in the diary for both fans and players who get a chance to see hockey how it was played centuries ago.
Blackhawks captain Brayden Schenn made his thoughts clear his excitement ahead of the tie: “This is a special time... the whole hockey world will have the attention of it and just spend the time with family and most importantly playing the game, playing outdoors.”
SEE ALSO: The lowest temperature ever at the Winter Classic
As mentioned, the upcoming edition will have Wrigley Field in Chicago as host of the 2025 NHL Winter Classic, featuring the Chicago Blackhawks and the the St. Louis Blues in what will be the first ever Winter Classic rematch in League history. The game is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 31, at 5 p.m. ET.
The Blackhawks, once a powerhouse in the NHL with Stanley Cup wins in 2010, 2013, and 2015, have participated in the Winter Classic four times. However, the team has struggled recently, making just one playoff appearance since 2017.
The Blues, on the other hand, will be appearing in their third Winter Classic. Their previous outings include a victory over the Blackhawks in the 2017 game at Busch Stadium in St. Louis.
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