The National Hockey League is bringing one of its premier outdoor events back to the Prairies. The Winnipeg Jets have been selected to host the Montreal Canadiens in the 2026 Heritage Classic, as officially announced by the league.
A Return to Outdoor Hockey in Winnipeg
This will mark the second time Winnipeg has hosted the NHL's Heritage Classic, a special event celebrating hockey's outdoor roots. The city previously held the game in October 2016, when the Jets' alumni faced off against former Edmonton Oilers stars. The successful execution of that event, held on a crisp autumn day, paved the way for the league's return.
The announcement, made public in early December 2025, sets the stage for a marquee matchup between two of Canada's original franchises. While an exact date within the 2026 calendar has not been finalized, the event is a significant addition to the NHL's schedule and a major win for hockey fans in Manitoba and across the country.
The Historic Rivalry Takes to the Elements
Hosting the Montreal Canadiens, a team with a storied 24 Stanley Cup championships, adds a layer of historic prestige to the event. The matchup promises to blend the pageantry of an outdoor game with the intensity of a clash between a passionate original-six club and Winnipeg's resilient modern franchise.
The venue for the game is expected to be IG Field, home of the CFL's Winnipeg Blue Bombers, which has the capacity to host a large-scale outdoor spectacle. The event will likely include a full weekend of festivities, featuring an alumni game, community events, and fan experiences centered around the celebration of hockey heritage.
Economic and Cultural Impact for the City
The return of the Heritage Classic is anticipated to provide a substantial economic boost for Winnipeg. The 2016 event drew tens of thousands of visitors, filling hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. The 2026 game is expected to generate similar tourism revenue and put a national spotlight on the city's vibrant sports culture.
For the Winnipeg Jets organization and its loyal fan base, this announcement is a point of pride and recognition. It affirms the city's status as a premier hockey market capable of hosting the NHL's biggest events. The game will offer a unique, unforgettable experience for players and fans alike, as professional athletes trade the controlled environment of the arena for the unpredictable elements of an outdoor rink.
As planning begins in earnest, anticipation will build for what promises to be a landmark event in Canadian sports. The 2026 Heritage Classic in Winnipeg is set to write a new chapter in the long and cherished tradition of outdoor hockey.
