The Winnipeg Jets and Montreal Canadiens are set to compete in the highly anticipated 2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic. This outdoor game will take place at Winnipeg’s Princess Auto Stadium on October 25, 2026. The match will commemorate the league’s eighth Heritage Classic and the first since 2023.
Previous Heritage Classics Highlight the Event’s Significance
This event will mark Winnipeg’s second outdoor matchup. The Jets previously hosted the Heritage Classic in October 2016, where they faced the Edmonton Oilers at the home of the CFL’s Blue Bombers. That game drew an impressive crowd of 33,240 spectators.
Teams’ Outdoor Game Records
- Winnipeg Jets: 1-1-0 in outdoor games.
- Won against the Calgary Flames during the 2019 Heritage Classic in Regina.
- Montreal Canadiens: 2-2-0 in outdoor games.
- Defeated the Edmonton Oilers in the 2003 Heritage Classic.
- Lost to the Flames in Calgary in 2011.
- Triumphed over the Boston Bruins at the 2016 Winter Classic in Foxborough.
- Top honors against the Senators at the NHL100 Classic in 2017.
Official Statement and Fan Anticipation
Steve Mayer, the NHL’s president of content and events, expressed excitement about returning to Winnipeg. “When Winnipeg hosted the Heritage Classic in 2016, we were blown away by the amazing fan response,” he remarked. This upcoming event is anticipated to draw significant interest, as it showcases two historical teams in a vibrant outdoor setting.
The 2026 Heritage Classic is shaping up to be a memorable occasion for hockey fans, offering a unique experience to witness the game in the great outdoors.
