whiteout street parties to return for round 1
The Winnipeg Whiteout will officially return to downtown Winnipeg as the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs roll into town.
With the NHL's postseason schedule makers yet to begin the daunting task of organizing eight best-of-seven series featuring the 16 playoff-bound clubs, two things are for certain: the Winnipeg Jets will be playing for a shot at Lord Stanley's mug, and the Winnipeg Whiteout will be in full effect.
Of course, an early thaw has allowed Jets fans to get outdoors a bit earlier than some years, however, whiteout conditions are still expected back in the province's capital, as early two week's time.
The NHL's regular season will conclude on Thursday, April 18, while the playoffs are expected to begin on either Saturday, April 20 or Monday, April 22.
Should the Jets (102 points) earn the same number of standings points or finish higher than the Colorado Avalanche (104 points) they will own home-ice advantage in the first round. In all likelihood, the Jets will face the Avalanche in the opening round. But where the series begins is still up for grabs as the teams round out their regular season over the next week.
As a matter of fact, Winnipeg actually faces Colorado on Saturday afternoon in a huge game with great postseason consequences.
On Wednesday, True North Sports + Entertainment announced the return of outdoor gatherings for fans prior to and during home Jets games.
Whiteout street parties will once again be a thing, as 5,000 ticketed attendees will get the chance to watch each home playoff game down Donald Street. Gates will open two hours before scheduled puck drops, while three large screens will broadcast the games alongside music, live entertainment and food.
“Our fans have made the street parties part of the Winnipeg Whiteout legacy," Kevin Donnelly, Sr. Vice President of venues and entertainment. "We are thrilled to again play a part in providing a community gathering spot for fans to share their passion and excitement for our Winnipeg Jets and celebrate their pride in our city."
Premier Wab Kinew and mayor Scott Gillingham were also present at Wednesday's media conference, alongside Michael Richardson, president of United Way - to which $5 from each ticket sold will be donated. Tickets for the whiteout street parties will be $10. Fans attending the game can use their venue ticket to also join in on the festivities pre-game.
“Our government is excited to be able to help bring back the energy of Jets Whiteout Parties to downtown Winnipeg,” Kinew said. “Not only do whiteout parties benefit downtown businesses and raise money for housing and mental health supports – they’re a fantastic way to come together as a community. I look forward to joining in and cheering the Jets on to victory.”
On top of the Donald Street section, True North will once again be hosting a Party in the Plaza, where additional fans can gather to watch the game and celebrate in True North Square's Hargrave Street Market indoors with top of the line dining and beverage options. Those tickets can be purchased for $20.
Since inception in 2018, whiteout street parties have seen nearly 160,000 fans enjoy Jets playoff games, while helping raise funds for important local causes. The government of Manitoba has set up $75K to be spent per round in support of the parties, while Economic Development Winnipeg has sent over an additional $50K in support.
Tickets for first round home playoff games will go on sale on April 15, while whiteout street party tickets will be available on April 17.
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