The NHL is set to bring back the Heritage Classic, featuring a matchup between the Winnipeg Jets and the Montreal Canadiens. This exciting game will occur on October 25, 2026, at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg, which is also the home venue of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic Overview
This event will mark the eighth installment of the Heritage Classic and the first since October 29, 2023. During the last match, the Edmonton Oilers triumphed over the Calgary Flames with a score of 5-2 at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton. Notably, this game will be the 46th outdoor regular-season game in NHL history.
Previous Heritage Classic in Winnipeg
- The Winnipeg Jets previously hosted a Heritage Classic on October 23, 2016.
- They faced the Edmonton Oilers and lost 3-0 in front of 33,240 fans.
Steve Mayer, the NHL’s president of content and events, expressed excitement for the upcoming event, emphasizing the positive fan response from the 2016 game. He noted that the atmosphere will be lively, similar to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and that plans are in place to create a unique experience for attendees in 2026.
Tim Hortons’ Continued Partnership
Tim Hortons will serve as the title sponsor for the NHL Heritage Classic, marking its seventh consecutive year in this role. As part of a new multiyear agreement, Tim Hortons will maintain its position as the Official Coffee and Baked Goods provider for the NHL in Canada.
- Tim Hortons has been a partner of the NHL and the Heritage Classic since 2010.
- The brand will engage hockey fans through various initiatives and programs, including the Tims NHL Hockey Challenge.
Winnipeg Jets and Montreal Canadiens’ Outdoor Game History
The Jets will play their third outdoor game, previously achieving a 2-1 overtime victory against the Calgary Flames at Mosaic Stadium in Regina on October 26, 2019. Meanwhile, the Canadiens will participate in their first outdoor game since 2017 and their fifth overall. Their outdoor game record stands at 2 wins and 2 losses.
Upcoming NHL Outdoor Games
This season, the NHL will host outdoor games in Florida, featuring several teams including the New York Rangers and the Tampa Bay Lightning:
- 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic: New York Rangers vs. Florida Panthers on January 2 at loanDepot Park, Miami.
- 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union Stadium Series: Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins on February 1 at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa.
Fans can expect a thrilling atmosphere and memorable moments at the 2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic. This event continues to showcase the deep-rooted connection between hockey and Canadian culture.
