SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (AP) — The anticipation for outdoor hockey in Utah is building as the Utah Mammoth prepares to host the 2027 NHL Winter Classic at Rice-Eccles Stadium. This landmark event will see the Mammoth face off against the Colorado Avalanche, marking a historic moment for the franchise, which was previously known as the Phoenix and Arizona Coyotes and earlier, the Winnipeg Jets. Although the exact date of the matchup has yet to be announced, the excitement surrounding the event is palpable among fans and officials alike. This Winter Classic will be particularly significant as it represents the first outdoor game for the Mammoth since their relocation to Salt Lake City in 2024. With this announcement, Utah becomes the final state in the NHL to host an outdoor game, joining the ranks of the other 31 active teams that have previously participated in such events. The significance of this milestone was not lost on league officials, with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praising the ownership of Ryan and Ashley Smith for their vision and commitment to enhancing the team’s presence in the community. "This is a dream," Ryan Smith stated, reflecting on the journey that led to this moment. "We actually came up here early in the process of even getting the team because we said this is what we want. We wanted our players to be able to have it." Rice-Eccles Stadium, home to the University of Utah football team, has a storied history as a venue for significant sporting events, including the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics. The stadium, which boasts a seating capacity of 51,444, is also set to play a key role in the upcoming 2034 Winter Olympics, further solidifying its place in Utah’s sports legacy. Bettman noted the stadium's advantageous layout and intimate atmosphere, stating, "This stadium sets up very well from a sightline perspective. There’s an intimacy here. We expect to have 50,000-plus here." The Colorado Avalanche, who will be making their fourth appearance in an outdoor game, bring with them a wealth of experience. The team currently holds a record of 1-2-0 in previous outdoor contests. Joe Sakic, the Avalanche's president of hockey operations, expressed enthusiasm about participating in such a marquee event. "The Avalanche organization is always proud to be in consideration for marquee events like this. We’re looking forward to being matched up with a great team and represent the Rocky Mountain region in a game that appeals to these two markets in this part of the country," Sakic stated in a recent news release. Utah's reputation as a winter sports destination makes hosting the Winter Classic a natural fit for the state. The Smiths emphasized their commitment to celebrating the local culture and lifestyle, with Ashley Smith stating, "We don’t hide from the winter here. We live in the mountains. It’s what we breathe. It’s very authentic to us and all of Utah." This sentiment aligns with the growing interest in hockey and winter sports among Utahans, further enhancing community support for the event. In a notable policy shift for the Winter Classic, alcohol sales will be permitted in Rice-Eccles Stadium during the game, as it is classified as a private event. This is a departure from the typical restrictions that are in place for athletic events involving the University of Utah, where alcohol sales are generally prohibited. This decision is expected to enhance the overall fan experience, providing an atmosphere more akin to that of traditional outdoor sports events. As the 2027 NHL Winter Classic draws nearer, the excitement surrounding the event continues to grow. Fans, local businesses, and the community at large are anticipating the economic and cultural benefits that will accompany this prestigious matchup. The Smiths’ vision for the Mammoth and their commitment to bringing high-caliber hockey to Utah are clearly resonating, with many looking forward to what promises to be an unforgettable day in the state’s sporting history. In the coming months, further details regarding the date and ticketing information for the Winter Classic will be released. For now, the focus remains on building excitement and anticipation for what is set to be a landmark event not just for the Mammoth, but for the entire state of Utah.