CHICAGO — The NHL is setting the stage for the 2025 Winter Classic, which will be held on New Year’s Eve at Wrigley Field, marking the first time the highly anticipated outdoor hockey game is played on this date. Traditionally, the Winter Classic has graced the calendar on New Year's Day, but the league opted for this change to avoid the overwhelming dominance of college football playoff games scheduled for the following day.
Since the inception of the event, which began back in 2008, this alteration aims to reclaim the spotlight for hockey on what is typically considered one of the most festive days of the year. The decision follows disappointing viewership numbers from the previous Winter Classic held on January 1, 2024, which recorded only 1.1 million viewers, the lowest on record.
With the Blackhawks set to face off against the St. Louis Blues at 5 p.m. ET, this year’s matchup is particularly significant for both teams. The Blackhawks have played numerous outdoor games but have struggled recently, allowing 21 goals across their last four matches. Starting with interim head coach Anders Sorensen, the team has seen some bright spots, especially with star player Connor Bedard, who has recently emerged from his slump with impressive statistics: six goals and nine assists over the month of December.
Meanwhile, the Blues are working hard to regain playoff contention after witnessing fluctuations this season. Under new head coach Jim Montgomery, who replaced Drew Bannister late last month, the team is four points behind the Vancouver Canucks for the final wild card spot. Montgomery’s positive impact on the locker room has reverberated through the Blues’ gameplay, and they will enter the Winter Classic feeling hopeful.
Wrigley Field, home of Major League Baseball's Chicago Cubs and the second-oldest ballpark, will serve as the venue, transforming its beloved baseball diamond for this unique event. The Cubs’ historic home previously hosted the Winter Classic back on January 1, 2009, when the Chicago Blackhawks faced off against the Detroit Red Wings. This new pairing allows for both teams to revisit the atmospheric allure of outdoor hockey, which is beloved by fans.
Fans from both sides have anticipated this event and many have taken advantage of the NHL PreGame festival, featuring hockey activities and food sampling. The event is seeing increased attendance even amid less-than-ideal weather conditions, showing just how much passion the community holds for this annual tradition.
“The atmosphere is great, seeing everyone come together is the best part,” said Jacob Smith, attending his ninth straight Winter Classic. His enthusiasm is echoed throughout the crowd, who embrace the blend of hockey with the charm of the historic stadium. Smith’s sentiments perfectly encapsulate the celebratory nature of this event.
Traveling to the venue was unique this year for Blackhawks players who chose to take the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train, thereby mimicking how many fans would arrive for the game. They all donned “Team Chicago” apparel, showcasing their connection to the local community and honoring first responders, with patches acknowledging their service.
On the ice, special details surrounding the game add to its excitement. This year’s matchup holds even more weight for St. Louis defenseman Cam Fowler, who is set to skate outdoors for his 1,000th NHL game. Both teams will aim to capitalize on their respective team lineups as the Blackhawks strive to overcome their recent misfortunes, whereas the Blues hope to bolster their playoff positioning.
Tickets have been highly sought after, with the backdrop of Wrigley Field promising to provide one of the most picturesque settings for winter sports. This Winter Classic is not only meant to showcase skilled hockey talent but also to unite fans, celebrating the essence of the sport intertwined with Chicago's unique culture of camaraderie and commitment to the game.
With all signs pointing to a thrilling matchup, fans are reminded to tune in for the broadcast on TNT, truTV, and streaming platforms such as Max. Excitement fills the air as the NHL prepares to deliver yet another etching of history at the Winter Classic, transforming Wrigley Field once more.