The Chicago Blackhawks will begin their 2025-26 home season on Saturday, October 11, with a series of events to mark the team’s centennial. The day will feature the annual red carpet event starting at 3 p.m. before the evening game against the Montreal Canadiens.
Fans attending the event will have the opportunity to see the current Blackhawks roster and interact with over 50 alumni from different eras of the team’s 100-year history. Alumni scheduled to attend include Corey Crawford, Brian Campbell, Adam Burish, Chris Chelios, Eddie Olczyk, Jeremy Roenick, and Denis Savard. These former players collectively represent multiple Hall of Fame careers, team captains, and a total of 18,000 games played for the Blackhawks. The team noted, “Alumni availability subject to change.”
The pregame festivities, presented by Circa Sports, will take place along Madison Street, which will be closed to traffic. The event will also include appearances from Blackhawks broadcasters, in-arena talent, and the team mascot, Tommy Hawk. The “Gold Coast All Stars” will perform live music before the game.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early, with the outdoor plaza opening at 2 p.m. and parking available from 1:30 p.m. Alumni are expected to arrive on the red carpet around 3 p.m., followed by player arrivals. The United Center gates and Atrium doors will open for ticketed fans at about 4 p.m., offering additional pregame activities and special food and beverage options. The first 20,000 fans entering the arena will receive a 2025-26 magnet schedule provided by Circa Sports.
With the game scheduled to start at 6 p.m., fans are advised to be seated by 5:45 p.m. for the Centennial opening show, which includes a pregame ceremony hosted by Pat Foley, full roster introductions, and other special presentations.
A limited number of tickets remain for the home opener and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. Local fans can watch the game on CHSN and NHL Network or listen on WGN Radio. More information is available at Blackhawks.com/HowToWatch.
The team also noted that the outdoor red carpet event is weather permitting; if necessary, only ticketed fans will be allowed early access to the Atrium in case of rain.