Article content
The 2023 Tim Hortons Heritage Classic between the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames will no doubt be a battle on the ice, the event will honour the province of Alberta in many unique ways.
Through field design, entertainment and cultural performances, the Heritage Classic aims to celebrate Alberta and make it memorable for fans for not just the highlights on the ice, but off the ice, too when the festivities unfold on Oct. 29 at Commonwealth Stadium.
Article content
In a rendering released Wednesday, the NHL provided a preview of the conversion of Commonwealth Stadium for the Oilers-Flames outdoor game and the visual cues designed to engage hockey fans.
The field design showcases two larger-than-life player illustrations adorned with specially designed vintage uniforms and engaged in the timeless “Battle of Alberta” all set against the backdrop of Edmonton’s oil country.
There is also an iconic field piping and derrick graphics down the north side of the field which pay homage to Edmonton and Alberta’s historical prominence in the oil industry.
There is also a 20-anniversary medallion located on the south side of the field as well as the face-off dot markers on the ice that commemorate the 20th anniversary of the inaugural NHL Heritage Classic between the Oilers and Montreal Canadiens on Nov.22, 2003.
Related Stories
-
Edmonton Oilers unveil NHL Heritage Classic uniforms
-
Edmonton’s Ice District to host free outdoor fan festival for NHL Heritage Classic
The event will also be honouring Alberta’s Indigenous community.
The opening ceremony will begin with a cultural performance featuring dancers and drummers from the Enoch Cree Nation, Inuit Nation and the Metis Nation, followed by Land Acknowledgment led by Grand Chief Desmond Bull, International Chief Wilton Littlechild, Grand Chief Arthur Noskey, Chief Roy Whitney, Elder Edna Alias and Metis Nation of Alberta President Andrea Sandmaier.
Article content
While Canadian Rock and Roll Hall of Fame rock band and Alberta’s own Nickelback will be performing during the second intermission, there is lots of music artists taking the stage during the Heritage Classic.
Country music star, and Edmonton’s own Brett Kissel will be performing the national anthem, while Canadian Indie Rock band The Rural Alberta Advantage will headline the pre-game entertainment with a performance during the Oilers and Flames player introductions.
During the game, the Oilers drum line as well as a rotation of Indigenous performers, including drumline and dancers will entertain fans.
Fans looking for all the up-to-date action and schedule of events, can visit nhl.com/HeritageClassic
Share this article in your social network