Winter Classic
2027
2027 NHL Winter Classic: Utah Mammoth vs Colorado Avalanche
The 2027 Discover NHL Winter Classic brings outdoor hockey to Salt Lake City as the Utah Mammoth host the Colorado Avalanche at Rice-Eccles Stadium in January 2027. This 18th edition of the NHL’s premier outdoor event marks a historic milestone: the Utah franchise’s first-ever outdoor game and the completion of every NHL team having appeared in an outdoor contest. Against the backdrop of the stunning Wasatch Mountains, two Rocky Mountain rivals will clash in what promises to be one of the most spectacular Winter Classics yet.
Historic First for the Utah Mammoth
The Utah Mammoth—the NHL’s newest franchise—have earned this opportunity through an extraordinary first two seasons. After purchasing the Arizona Coyotes assets in April 2024, owners Ryan and Ashley Smith transformed the franchise with remarkable speed: building facilities, renovating Delta Center, unveiling the Mammoth brand identity, and most importantly, cultivating one of the most passionate fan bases in hockey. Led by exciting young talents like Logan Cooley, Clayton Keller, Dylan Guenther, and Nick Schmaltz, the Mammoth have electrified sold-out crowds at Delta Center and now bring that energy outdoors.
Rocky Mountain Rivalry: Mammoth vs Avalanche
The matchup couldn’t be more fitting. The Colorado Avalanche—featuring superstars Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar—have been dominant in 2025-26, posting one of the greatest regular-season starts in NHL history. This will be Colorado’s fourth outdoor game but their first-ever Winter Classic appearance. The Avalanche have a 1-2-0 record in outdoor contests, most recently defeating the Vegas Golden Knights 3-2 at Lake Tahoe in 2021. The regional rivalry between Utah and Colorado adds natural intensity to this already-special occasion.
Rice-Eccles Stadium: Olympic Venue Turned Hockey Arena
Rice-Eccles Stadium on the University of Utah campus provides the perfect setting. The venue hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics—where the 1980 U.S. “Miracle on Ice” team lit the cauldron—and will reprise that role for the 2034 Winter Olympics. At 4,657 feet elevation with stunning mountain views, the stadium seats over 51,000 for hockey, creating an intimate atmosphere compared to larger football stadiums. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised the venue’s “great sightlines” and “intimacy.”
What Makes This Winter Classic Special
Several factors make the 2027 Winter Classic unique. It’s the 32nd and final NHL franchise to appear in an outdoor game, completing a full cycle. Utah’s outdoor culture—with seven world-class ski resorts within 20 minutes of the stadium—makes this a natural destination for hockey fans seeking a winter vacation. Owner Ryan Smith envisions fans combining the game with skiing, turning this into a multi-day experience. The game will be broadcast on TNT in the United States and Sportsnet in Canada.
Event Details
- Event: 2027 Discover NHL Winter Classic
- Matchup: Utah Mammoth vs Colorado Avalanche
- Venue: Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Date: January 2027 (exact date TBA)
- Capacity: 51,000+
- Broadcast: TNT (U.S.) / Sportsnet (Canada)
How to Get 2027 Winter Classic Tickets
Tickets for the 2027 NHL Winter Classic are available through our verified resale marketplace. BigStub connects fans with authentic tickets from trusted sellers at competitive prices. All listings display upfront pricing with no hidden fees—the price you see is the price you pay. Our secure checkout and buyer protection guarantee make purchasing easy and risk-free. Sign up for ticket availability alerts to be notified when new listings become available.
The Winter Classic Tradition
The NHL Winter Classic began in 2008 as a way to return hockey to its outdoor roots while attracting new fans to the sport. Held annually at the start of the new year, the event has become the NHL’s signature regular-season showcase. Previous host venues include storied locations like Wrigley Field, Fenway Park, Michigan Stadium (the “Big House”), Notre Dame Stadium, and most recently loanDepot park in Miami. Each Winter Classic incorporates local culture, history, and traditions into the event, making every edition unique.
Why Buy from a Resale Marketplace?
Major events like the Winter Classic generate enormous demand, often exceeding official ticket supply. Resale marketplaces provide fans additional opportunities to attend by aggregating listings from verified sellers. At BigStub, we show you total prices upfront with no hidden fees—the price you see is exactly what you pay. With over 20 years in business and top ratings on Trustpilot, we offer secure transactions and buyer protection on every purchase.
Planning Your Salt Lake City Trip
- Book Accommodations Early: January is peak ski season in Utah. Hotels fill up quickly, so reserve well in advance.
- Combine with Skiing: Seven ski resorts are within 20 minutes of downtown Salt Lake City, including Park City, Snowbird, and Alta.
- Dress for the Weather: January temperatures in Salt Lake City average highs around 40°F and lows near 25°F. Dress in warm layers.
- Stadium Policies: Alcohol sales will be permitted at the Winter Classic (unlike typical University of Utah events) since it’s a private event.
- Transportation: Consider public transit or rideshare. Rice-Eccles Stadium is on the University of Utah campus with limited parking.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Winter Classic
When is the 2027 NHL Winter Classic?
The 2027 Winter Classic will take place in January 2027 at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. The exact date has not yet been announced by the NHL. Most Winter Classics occur on or around January 1st or 2nd.
Who is playing in the 2027 Winter Classic?
The Utah Mammoth will host the Colorado Avalanche. This will be Utah’s first outdoor game in franchise history and Colorado’s first appearance in a Winter Classic, though the Avalanche have played in three previous outdoor games.
Where is the 2027 Winter Classic being held?
Rice-Eccles Stadium on the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City will host the 2027 Winter Classic. The stadium, which hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics ceremonies, seats over 51,000 and sits at 4,657 feet elevation with views of the Wasatch Mountains.
How can I buy 2027 Winter Classic tickets?
Tickets are available through our verified resale marketplace. Select your preferred seats and complete your purchase through our secure checkout. All prices include fees upfront. Sign up for alerts to be notified when new listings become available.
What channel will broadcast the 2027 Winter Classic?
The 2027 Winter Classic will air on TNT in the United States and Sportsnet in Canada. Exact broadcast times will be announced closer to the event.
Is this the first outdoor game for the Utah Mammoth?
Yes, this will be the first outdoor game in Utah Mammoth franchise history. With this appearance, all 32 current NHL teams will have participated in at least one outdoor game—completing a milestone for the league.
Have the Colorado Avalanche played outdoor games before?
Yes, the Avalanche have played in three outdoor games with a 1-2-0 record. They lost at Coors Field in Denver (2016) and Falcon Stadium in Colorado Springs (2020), but won at Lake Tahoe against Vegas (2021). This will be their first Winter Classic appearance.
What is the capacity for the Winter Classic at Rice-Eccles Stadium?
Rice-Eccles Stadium seats 51,444 for football and is expected to accommodate a similar number for the Winter Classic. The NHL may adjust capacity based on sightlines and staging requirements.
Will alcohol be sold at the 2027 Winter Classic?
Yes, alcohol sales will be permitted at the Winter Classic because it is classified as a private event, separate from University of Utah athletics policies that prohibit alcohol at regular sporting events.
What should I wear to the Winter Classic?
January in Salt Lake City can be cold. Average highs are around 40°F with lows near 25°F. Dress in warm layers, wear insulated boots, and bring hand warmers. Consider bringing a blanket or seat cushion for comfort in the stadium seats.
Are there hotels near Rice-Eccles Stadium?
Yes, numerous hotels are located in downtown Salt Lake City, just minutes from the University of Utah campus. Popular areas include downtown SLC and the Sugar House neighborhood. Book early, as January is peak ski season in Utah.
Can I combine the Winter Classic with a ski trip?
Absolutely! Seven world-class ski resorts are within 20 minutes of downtown Salt Lake City, including Park City Mountain, Deer Valley, Snowbird, and Alta. Many fans are expected to make this a multi-day winter vacation.
Who are the star players on the Utah Mammoth?
The Mammoth roster includes exciting talents like Logan Cooley, Clayton Keller, Dylan Guenther, Nick Schmaltz, and goaltender Karel Vejmelka. The team has built a young, competitive core since relocating from Arizona in 2024.
Who are the star players on the Colorado Avalanche?
The Avalanche feature superstars Nathan MacKinnon (former Hart Trophy winner) and Cale Makar (two-time Norris Trophy winner), along with skilled players like Mikko Rantanen. Colorado has been one of the NHL’s elite teams and 2022 Stanley Cup champions.
What is BigStub’s buyer protection?
BigStub is a verified ticket marketplace with over 20 years in business. All listings come from verified sellers, and every transaction is protected. If there’s ever an issue with your tickets, our customer service team works to resolve it quickly, including providing comparable replacement tickets when necessary.