> At a Glance
> – Utah Mammoth will host the 2027 NHL Winter Classic at Rice-Eccles Stadium against the Colorado Avalanche
> – This will be Utah’s first outdoor game, making them the last of 31 teams to participate
> – No date has been announced yet
> – Why it matters: The game marks a milestone for the franchise formerly known as the Arizona Coyotes, now based in Salt Lake City
The NHL Winter Classic is heading to Utah for the first time, bringing outdoor hockey to the Rocky Mountain region in 2027. The Utah Mammoth will host the Colorado Avalanche at Rice-Eccles Stadium, home of the University of Utah football team.
A Long-Awaited First
The Utah Mammoth, formerly the Phoenix/Arizona Coyotes and originally the Winnipeg Jets, will finally join the NHL’s outdoor game tradition. The franchise is the last of 31 active teams to take part in an outdoor game.
Ryan and Ashley Smith, who bought and relocated the team to Salt Lake City in 2024, have been praised by Commissioner Gary Bettman for their efforts.
> Ryan Smith said:
> “This is a dream. We actually came up here early in the process of even getting the team because we said this is what we want. We wanted our players to be able to have it.”
Stadium and Setting
Rice-Eccles Stadium, which hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics and is set to do so again in 2034, will serve as the venue. The stadium has a seating capacity of 51,444.
> Commissioner Gary Bettman noted:
> “This stadium sets up very well from a sight line perspective. There’s an intimacy here. We expect to have 50,000-plus here.”
During the Winter Classic, alcohol sales will be permitted inside the stadium, as the event is considered a private event-a contrast to University of Utah athletic events, where alcohol sales are prohibited.
Colorado’s Experience
The Colorado Avalanche will be making their fourth outdoor appearance, with a record of 1-2-0 in previous outdoor games.
> Joe Sakic, Colorado’s president of hockey operations, stated:
> “The Avalanche organization is always proud to be in consideration for marquee events like this. We’re looking forward to being matched up with a great team and represent the Rocky Mountain region in a game that appeals to these two markets in this part of the country.”
Embracing Winter
The Smiths emphasized that Utah’s identity aligns with the Winter Classic spirit.
> Ashley Smith said:
> “We don’t hide from the winter here. We live in the mountains. It’s what we breathe. It’s very authentic to us and all of Utah.”
Key Takeaways
- The 2027 NHL Winter Classic will be held at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City
- Utah Mammoth vs. Colorado Avalanche marks the first outdoor game for the Utah franchise
- No date has been announced yet
- The game highlights the NHL’s continued expansion into non-traditional markets
The Winter Classic will bring outdoor hockey to Utah for the first time, completing the NHL’s circle of outdoor games for all 31 teams.
