Photo credit: NHL.com
It's starting to feel real now, hockey is officially moving into the heart of Miami.
Inside loanDepot park, the transformation is well underway as the NHL prepares for the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic between the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers on January 2. Dasher boards, glass, benches, and penalty boxes are already in place, replacing the familiar baseball layout with something entirely new for South Florida.
On Tuesday, the league began the process of laying the ice for the first outdoor NHL game ever played in the Sunshine State. The rink stretches from right field to left, fitting snugly into a ballpark that NHL executive vice president of events Dean Matsuzaki described as surprisingly intimate.
Unlike massive football stadiums that often host outdoor games, loanDepot park's narrow field and limited foul territory bring fans closer to the action. With a Winter Classic capacity of roughly 35,300, the building should feel tight, loud, and energetic once the puck drops.
Climate has been the obvious talking point, but the NHL appears comfortable with the setup. The retractable roof has remained closed for days, allowing cool air to settle inside while massive air conditioning units keep temperatures similar to what players experience at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise.
The ice itself is being built on 253 aluminum pans, connected to two Mobile Refrigeration Units brought in specifically for the event. The floor has already been cooled, allowing the ice-making process to begin in controlled conditions.
A Winter Classic with a South Florida twist
Here's where this one becomes different. When game time arrives, the roof and massive windows overlooking downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay are expected to open. Instead of snowbanks and breath clouds, fans will get palm trees, skyline views, and a true tropical outdoor hockey experience.
Around the rink, the NHL plans to lean into that contrast. One side of the field will feature a winter-themed setup with a synthetic ice rink, while the other embraces South Florida culture with a beach-inspired street hockey area. It's winter meets South Beach, by design.
Weather-wise, the early outlook is favorable. Forecasts for January 2 call for a high around 70 degrees and a low in the mid-50s, with no rain expected. For an outdoor game in Miami, that's about as good as it gets.