(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — With hockey set to return to the Friendly Confines later this month, NHL leaders are sharing some of their game plans for the league’s 16th Winter Classic.
“Now, we’re putting the final touches on what we think will be one of our greatest games ever.”
When the Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues drop the puck here at Wrigley Field on New Year’s Eve, President of Content and Events for the NHL Steve Mayer says fans will see plenty of Chicago representation.
“We have taken advantage of some of the things that this great city has to offer. The rivers, the bridges. Some of the great things that this stadium has to offer, like the ivy,” Mayer said.
Though the league will be bringing their own along, while Chicago’s own Smashing Pumpkins and Chance the Rapper will supply the game’s music.
Mayer says in terms of both preparation and Wrigley Field itself, plenty has changed since the 2009 Winter Classic.
“The pyro, the lighting, the flyover. Everything has just gone to a whole new level. It’s a different experience than it was back in 2009, and we’re proud of that.”
There will also be a New Year's Eve party area in right field, and leaders promise more surprises ahead of puck drop Dec. 31.
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