“You can have an idea, but turning it into reality takes a team effort,” said Greg Mueller, NHL’s vice president of creative services. “Integrating those ideas is what brings them to life. We’re lucky to work with an incredible group.”
This event will mark the NHL’s first outdoor game in Florida, themed “Snowy Winter Comes to Sunny Florida.”
The logo, designed by Schettino, captures this unique vibe. It features “Winter” in bold script, while “Classic” pops in pink neon, reminiscent of South Beach’s Art Deco style. A palm tree lightly dusted with snow adds to the visual contrast.
“This logo sparks curiosity,” Schettino shared. “People will wonder, ‘How are you going to do that in Miami?’”
The setting will beautifully contrast Miami’s sunshine with a winter wonderland. On one side, the Panthers’ area will bask in sun, complete with sunshine face-off dots and a field that looks like beach sand, featuring a street hockey rink and lifeguard tower where actors will enjoy the sun.
On the other side, the Rangers will represent winter. Their face-off dots will be designed as snowflakes, and the field will mimic a snowy landscape with a synthetic ice rink and an all-terrain vehicle ready to plow. Actors will playfully engage in winter-themed activities.
This unique blend of themes not only creates a striking visual experience but also celebrates the cultural diversity of sports. According to recent surveys, outdoor games like this have gained popularity across diverse regions, reflecting a growing interest in expanding sports events beyond traditional venues.
Experts believe that such innovative designs and themes can draw in new fans, bridging the gap between different cultural experiences. As we look at the growing trend of themed sports events, it’s clear that this matchup brings a fresh twist to the hockey world.
If you’re interested in the evolution of outdoor games, check out the NHL’s history of similar events here.
