COLORADO SPRINGS — If you aren't a fan of hockey, but still want to break the ice and get out this Saturday, there's a weekend lined up for you as the 2020 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series comes to town.
The Avalanche and Kings are set to hit the ice Friday for their practice sessions ahead of this weekend's outdoor stadium series showdown.
Fans of all ages can get in on the fun, at the U.S. Air Force Academy, from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday.
The pregame fun will include live musical performances, a chance to take a picture with the Stanley Cup, and interactive fan exhibits, including hockey puck wall art, and video booths.
The Air Force Academy will also be apart of this event. 1,000 Cadets, Fighting Falcon Jets, an acapella group, and the Honor Guard will put on pregame performances before the start of Saturday's game.
News5's Sports team got an inside look at what it's like to put an event of this size together, from the pregame fun, to the big games ahead.
"Well we've been reminding ourselves, its a lot of long hours, a lot of work that goes into pulling this off," said Nathan Pine, Athletic Director of the Air Force Academy. "We want to make this represent the academy and NHL the way it should, and we also take a lot of pride in that."
Even the stadium was transformed ahead of the exciting weekend. Event organizers say they're expecting 40,000 people to fill the stands.
"It's awesome, I didn't realize how small it would look compared to the stadium," said Matt Pulver, Air Force Senior Forward Captain. "They said it's regulation size, so we're excited to play here on Monday and watch the NHL Game on Saturday."
Fans are encouraged to arrive at the Air Force Academy and Falcon Stadium early on Saturday to avoid expected traffic and security lines.
Also, prepare to pay for parking! Limited parking will be available for $30 cash only on game day.
News5 will be there ahead of Saturday's game. We'll be broadcasting our 5:30 p.m. newscast from Falcon Stadium, Saturday evening.
The newscast will be followed by a 30 minute special, on the rich history of the rivalry between the Air Force Academy Falcons, and the Colorado College Tigers.
For a complete list of festivities, parking and security details, click here.
