The 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic in Miami promises to be a unique visual spectacle, blending the fantasy of a snowy winter with the reality of sunny Florida. The game between the Florida Panthers and the New York Rangers will be held at loanDepot park, a venue usually associated with baseball. The creative team behind this event has designed a picturesque setting that will captivate both the national TV audience and the fans in attendance.
The main logo, designed by Greg Schettino, features a simple yet eye-catching design. It showcases the trademark 'Winter' script in a pink neon 'Classic' font, inspired by the Art Deco hotels on South Beach. A palm tree is dusted with snow, creating a conversation starter and a unique visual element. The ice crew will further enhance this contrast by having sunny Florida on the Panthers' side and snowy winter on the Rangers' side, with each face-off dot featuring a sunshine or snowflake design.
The field will be transformed to resemble a sandy beach, complete with a street hockey rink and a lifeguard tower, where actors will enjoy the sun. In contrast, the Rangers' side will have a synthetic ice rink and an all-terrain vehicle with a plow, creating a winter wonderland. The massive NHL logo will resemble a sand sculpture, and 'FLA' and 'NYR' signs will be outlined in neon, adding to the overall experience.
The attention to detail is remarkable, with live palm trees, replica flamingos, pelicans, and iguanas, as well as umbrellas, beach towels, and lounge chairs. Betsy Cox, the art director, sourced surfboards from Florida and purchased pelicans, iguanas, and other props online. She even bought the pelicans, iguanas, umbrellas, and lounge chairs on Amazon to ensure a realistic and immersive environment.
The event will also feature unexpected elements during stoppages in play, such as a Spikeball game, a belly-flop competition, or a snowball fight. Cox jokes about putting the camera guys in abominable snowmen costumes, adding an element of surprise and fun to the game.
This Winter Classic is a testament to the creativity and coordination of the NHL and its partners, who bring these unique visual experiences to life, captivating audiences and creating lasting memories.
