ST. PAUL, MN – Marking the first time a National Hockey League game will ever be played outdoors in Minnesota, Governor Mark Dayton has declared February 20-21, 2016 to be “NHL Stadium Series Weekend.” Governor Dayton’s proclamation honors the incredible history, heritage, and passion for hockey in Minnesota. You can read the Governor’s /governor/assets/2016_02_18_NHL_Stadium_Series_Weekend_tcm1055-154783.pdfproclamation here.

 

“This landmark event will offer hundreds of youth hockey players from across Minnesota a chance to attend the 2016 NHL Stadium Series,” said Governor Mark Dayton in the proclamation. “And experience the sport and its legends on grand display, made possible by the National Hockey League, Minnesota Wild, and Minnesota Hockey Organizations.”

 

Hockey has been a favorite Minnesota pastime for decades. Growing up, Governor Dayton was an All-State hockey goalie in high school and played in college.

 

On February 20, 2016, thousands of hockey fans from near and far will enjoy an alumni game featuring former greats from the Minnesota Wild, Minnesota North Stars, and Chicago Blackhawks, reigniting memories of a legendary rivalry.

 

The following afternoon will feature the current roster of stars from the Minnesota Wild taking on the Chicago Blackhawks in an epic outdoor tilt in front of a sold-out crowd of over 50,000 hockey fans. NHL Stadium Series Weekend coincides with “Hockey Weekend Across America,” where national television coverage will be centered on TCF Bank Stadium, highlighting that Minnesota is the State of Hockey.