Hours before the Edmonton Oilers faced the Calgary Flames Wednesday night, work was underway to ensure Rogers Place was looking its best for the Battle of Alberta.
The zamboni took a few final laps around the ice at around 5 p.m. and staff gave the plexiglass a last-minute clean.
Every guest attending the first Oilers game of the regular season at the new arena was treated to an Oilers shirt and an interactive light-up bracelet to be used in Wednesday’s pre-game show.
“I’ve been waiting for this for a few months now,” said one Oilers fan.
“I’ve been anticipating this ever since they talked about putting a new building up here,” added another. “We’re really excited.”
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The T-shirts were colour coordinated to create the Oilers logo for fans looking across the ice at the seats opposite them. That, plus a light show, washed the arena in orange and blue.
Fans started streaming in at a little after 5 p.m., with many getting their first look at the Oilers new home.
Then an opening ceremony was held, followed by warm ups.
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