SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - The Springfield Thunderbirds are excited to unveil a stacked promotional and theme schedule for the 2026-27 AHL season, marking the 100th anniversary of professional hockey in the City of Firsts. This year's promo calendar blends fan-favorite traditions with new giveaways and never-before-seen surprises sure to delight T-Birds fans of all ages. 

"As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of professional hockey here in Springfield, we take immense pride in knowing this game has been a staple of our community for a century—and in the atmosphere we've cultivated for fans of all ages," said Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa. "Our mission has always been to create traditions and marquee nights that people look forward to year after year—blending pop culture, meaningful community initiatives, and inventive, spirited experiences that make every game memorable. Thanks to our incredible fans, the Thunderdome has grown into one of the most electric environments in the league, and that passion and deep connection to our fanbase continues to fuel everything we do."

Once again this season, fans should note that all Saturday home games will kick off with 6:05 p.m. puck drops, along with one Wednesday night matchup on March 10. Paid parking will continue to be available throughout the season at the nearby Convention Center CarPark, and The Landing—the outdoor plaza next to the CarPark—will be open and activated for select nights during the season. Fans seeking free parking can still take advantage of the MGM Springfield garage.

The puck drops on Saturday, Oct. 10, with Opening Night presented by MGM Springfield as the T-Birds welcome the Laval Rocket to town as head coach Steve Ott and captain Chris Wagner leads their squad into an exciting new season. Ahead of puck drop, fans can stop by The Landing for the Community Bank N.A. season-opening Block Party, presented with support from the Springfield BID, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., featuring live music by Fever, food & drink, and plenty of energy to launch another unforgettable season. The T-Birds are poised to celebrate an 11th consecutive Opening Night sellout inside the Thunderdome.

In addition to the appearances and themes below, fans can expect to see specialty jerseys corresponding to the following themes: Teddy Bear Toss, Heritage Night, Ice-O-Topes Night, Pink in the Rink, and St. Patrick's Day!

New for 2026-27:

Boots & Brews presented by Nutrl Vodka Seltzer
Saturday, Oct. 17 vs. Lehigh Valley Phantoms, 6:05 p.m.
T-Birds boot glass giveaway (all Beer Tasting purchasers + first 1,000 fans through doors)
Pregame Beer Tasting Event on The Landing + Concert by Deep River Ramblers

Returning with a brand new twist, the T-Birds' annual craft beer tasting event for fans 21-and-older will double as the first ever Country Night featuring live music by Deep River Ramblers. Making the night all the more topical is a first-of-its-kind giveaway, a T-Birds boot pint glass!

Shoresy Night ft. Appearance by Terry Ryan
Saturday, Jan. 2 vs. Providence Bruins, 6:05 p.m.

Adding even more star power to the night, the Thunderbirds are excited to welcome Terry Ryan - former pro hockey player and best known to fans for his role as Hitch on the hit series Shoresy - to the Thunderdome for a special appearance. Ryan will be on hand to meet fans and take part in an exclusive meet & greet during his visit to Springfield. Additional details regarding the appearance, including VIP opportunities and meet & greet information, will be announced at a later date.

"Check on Your Teammates" Mental Health Awareness Day
Sunday, Jan. 3 vs. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, 3:05 p.m.

It’s okay not to be okay. As the New Year gets underway, the T-Birds will take an afternoon to focus on a meaningful resolution: checking in on our teammates. The day will be dedicated to raising awareness of mental health and the importance of supporting one another, both on and off the ice. The Thunderbirds will partner with the lifestyle brand Violent Gentlemen Hockey Club and several nonprofit organizations throughout Western Massachusetts that provide resources, services, and support to individuals from all walks of life who are impacted by mental health challenges.

Georgii Romanov "Slide" Bobblehead presented by Stop & Shop
Saturday, Jan. 23 vs. Lehigh Valley Phantoms, 6:05 pm.

The T-Birds goaltender, whose remarkable playoff run in 2026 was accentuated by his trademark "slide" celebration, will be adorned in bobblehead form when Springfield hosts the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. The first 2,500 fans inside the MassMutual Center will receive this most unique bobblehead to date!

Returning Annual Nights & Memorable Events:

Opening Night presented by MGM Springfield ft. Community Bank N.A. Pregame Block Party with support from the Springfield BID
Saturday, Oct. 10 vs. Laval Rocket, 6:05 p.m.
Rally towel & magnet schedule giveaway (all fans)

Before the 100th anniversary of Springfield hockey gets underway inside the Thunderdome, fans can head to The Landing for the Community Bank N.A. season-opening Block Party from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., featuring live music by Fever, food & drink, and plenty of energy to launch another magnificent season, with support from the Springfield BID. Then be sure to make your way to the MassMutual Center and settle into your seats by 5:45 for Opening Night festivities!

Pucks & Paws presented by Pet Supplies Plus to benefit Foundation for TJO Animals
Saturday, Nov. 1 vs. Hartford Wolf Pack, 6:05 p.m.
T-Birds poop bags/holder giveaway (first 500 fans w/ dogs)

This night is once again sure to be paw-some! Bring your four-legged friends for this dog-friendly evening inside the Thunderdome. The first 500 fans bringing their pups will get a much-needed giveaway item - a poop bag holder! A portion of each dog ticket purchased that night will benefit the Foundation for TJO Animals. 

School Day Game presented by MassMutual, Fontaine Bros. Construction, & Mass Lottery
Tuesday, Nov. 10 vs. Laval Rocket, 10:35 a.m.
T-Birds workbook giveaway (all students)

More than 6,000 students from schools across Springfield and the surrounding communities will pack the Thunderdome for a fun-filled morning where the classroom meets the ice. Blending education with the excitement of T-Birds hockey, each student in attendance will receive a specially designed workbook featuring activities and lessons spanning a variety of school subjects.

Rock 102 Mayflower Marathon Kickoff
Friday, Nov. 20 vs. Charlotte Checkers, 7:05 p.m.
T-Birds oven mitt giveaway presented by Buffalo Wild Wings (2,500)

The Thunderbirds will once again team up with Rock 102 in support of the annual Mayflower Marathon food drive at MGM Springfield, continuing a meaningful partnership in the fight against food insecurity across Western Massachusetts. Rock 102’s Bax & Nagle will be on hand for the evening, encouraging fans and the greater Springfield community to come together and lend a helping hand to neighbors in need. Fans are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations, with all contributions benefiting Springfield’s Open Pantry. As an added bonus, the first 2,500 fans through the doors will receive a special T-Birds oven mitt.

Teddy Bear Toss presented by Teddy Bear Pools & Spas - *Specialty Jersey*
Saturday, Dec. 5 vs. Utica Comets, 6:05 p.m.
Adult-sized T-Birds jersey giveaway (2,500) courtesy of Teddy Bear Pools & Spas

A blizzard of stuffed animals will once again take over the Thunderdome on the first Saturday in December as the T-Birds welcome fans for the annual Teddy Bear Toss! Fans are encouraged to bring new teddy bears and other stuffed animals to the game and, when the T-Birds light the lamp for the first time, send them flying onto the ice for collection and donation to children throughout the greater Springfield community ahead of the holiday season. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the T-Birds will also hit the ice in a holiday-inspired specialty jersey for the third consecutive season.

The first 2,500 fans through the doors will take home an adult-sized T-Birds jersey giveaway inspired by the team’s specialty look that night, courtesy of Teddy Bear Pools & Spas!

Boomer Holiday Ornament presented by Window World of Western Mass
Saturday, Dec. 12 vs. Rochester Americans, 6:05 p.m.
Boomer holiday ornament giveaway (3,000)

The holidays are full of traditions — and this one promises to be fuller than most. Fans can add a little T-Birds flair to their Christmas tree with a special Boomer holiday ornament, courtesy of Window World of Western Mass, available to the first 3,000 fans through the doors at the Thunderdome on Dec. 12 when the T-Birds host the Amerks. Inspired by a certain unforgettable holiday classic, this is one giveaway you’ll definitely want to make room for on the tree.

Springfield Hockey Heritage Night presented by MassMutual
Saturday, Jan. 16 vs. Hartford Wolf Pack, 6:05 p.m.
Heritage pennant giveaway (5,000) courtesy of MassMutual

The Thunderbirds kick off a busy second half of marquee nights with the return of a fan favorite — Throwback Night! This year’s trip down memory lane will take on even greater significance as the T-Birds celebrate 100 years of hockey history in Springfield. From the generations of teams and players who have called the city home to the unforgettable moments that have shaped a century on the ice, the Thunderdome will turn back the clock for a night filled with nostalgia, history and a few surprises along the way.

Kids Takeover Day presented by Big Y
Monday, Jan. 18 vs. Belleville Senators, 3:05 p.m.
Postgame full team autograph session & poster giveaway (all fans)

The puck drops early for a special MLK Day matinee against Belleville, and the Big Y Boomer’s Kids Club will take over the Thunderdome! Young T-Birds fans will get a behind-the-scenes taste of gameday by taking part in roles throughout the arena, from ticket scanning and social media photography to chuck-a-puck pickup and more. If your young fan isn’t already a member of Boomer’s Kids Club, click here to sign them up today!

The fun continues after the final horn with a full-team autograph session, giving fans the chance to meet their favorite T-Birds. The afternoon will also serve as another Mass Lottery Winning Weekday — if the T-Birds pick up the win, fans in attendance can redeem their game ticket for a free ticket to the next Winning Weekday game!

Military Appreciation Night presented by King Gray Coach Lines
Saturday, Jan. 30 vs. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, 6:05 p.m.
T-Birds boonie hat giveaway (2,500)

The spotlight will once again shine on the brave veterans and active-duty military personnel who have dedicated themselves to serving our country. Throughout the evening, the T-Birds will recognize and celebrate members of each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, giving the Thunderdome faithful an opportunity to show their appreciation for their service and sacrifice. The first 2,500 fans through the doors will also receive the second installment of a special military-inspired T-Birds boonie hat.

Springfield Ice-O-Topes Night presented by Balise - *Specialty Jersey*
Saturday, Feb. 20 vs. San Diego Gulls, 6:05 p.m.
Ice-O-Topes player poster giveaway (all fans)

Excellent! Always one of the most anticipated nights on the T-Birds calendar, the Springfield Ice-O-Topes return to the Thunderdome in February, looking to keep their unbeaten streak alive! This year’s installment welcomes a brand-new challenger, as the San Diego Gulls make their first-ever visit to Springfield for an Ice-O-Topes showdown. Keep your eyes peeled after the New Year for the unveiling of this year’s specialty jersey, with game-worn sweaters hitting the auction block following the game!

Sensory Friendly Sunday presented by CHD
Sunday, Feb. 21 vs. San Diego Gulls, 3:05 p.m.

One of the most meaningful dates on the T-Birds calendar, CHD’s Sensory Friendly Sunday returns to the Thunderdome in February, creating a more welcoming and inclusive game-day experience for fans with sensitivities to light and sound. In partnership with CHD and Occupational Therapy students from Springfield College, the T-Birds will once again feature specially designed programming and accommodations throughout the afternoon, ensuring fans of all abilities can experience the excitement of T-Birds hockey in a comfortable environment. Following the final horn, fans are invited to hit the ice themselves for a special postgame skate with Boomer!

The T-Birds’ commitment to accessibility extends throughout the entire season, as Sensory Bags will once again be available at every home game thanks to the support of MAACO Collision Repair and Auto Painting. Each bag features helpful resources including noise-cancelling headphones, feelings cards, stress-relieving foam pucks, and other sensory-friendly items designed to help make every trip to the Thunderdome an enjoyable one.

Pink in the Rink Night presented by Baystate Health to benefit Rays of Hope - *Specialty Jersey*
Saturday, March 6 vs. Providence Bruins, 6:05 p.m. 
Pink light-up tube giveaway (all fans)

One of the T-Birds’ most meaningful decade-long traditions, Pink in the Rink returns as the Thunderbirds and the Western Massachusetts community come together to “Stick It to Cancer.” The evening will celebrate the courage and strength of breast cancer survivors, honor those we have lost and rally behind all those who continue to fight. A moving pregame ceremony will bring the Thunderdome together in a powerful display of hope and determination, while proceeds from the team’s postgame specialty jersey auction will directly benefit Rays of Hope in Springfield and its ongoing mission in the fight against breast cancer.

Hometown Heroes Night presented by M&T Bank
Saturday, April 3 vs. Hartford Wolf Pack, 6:05 p.m.
Touch-A-Truck Pregame at The Landing

The T-Birds are enhancing their annual salute to everyday heroes who serve and protect our community with a special night honoring the dedicated men and women of our region’s police, fire and emergency medical services. With this new April date, young fans will have a chance to see vehicles up close with a pregame Touch-A-Truck at The Landing. Among the evening’s signature moments will be the return of the emergency vehicle parade during intermission, as first responder vehicles take to the ice with lights flashing and sirens sounding in a powerful tribute to those who answer the call each and every day.

Fan Appreciation Day presented by MGM Springfield ft. Community Bank N.A. Pregame Block Party with support from the Springfield BID
Sunday, April 4 vs. Hershey Bears, 3:05 p.m.
Team poster giveaway (all fans)
Postgame paint the ice presented by Rocky's Ace Hardware

The T-Birds will send the regular season out in style with a full day of festivities as the excitement of playoff hockey waits just around the corner! The celebration begins outside the Thunderdome with another pregame Block Party, featuring live music, food, drinks and plenty of outdoor fun. After the final horn, all fans are invited to stick around for the annual Paint the Ice event, putting their own personal touch on the ice as we bid farewell to the regular season and turn our attention to the postseason!

2026-27 Promo Schedule At-A-Glance:

October:
Saturday, Oct. 10 vs. LAV, 6:05 p.m.: Opening Night pres. by MGM Springfield & Big Y / Community Bank N.A. Pregame Block Party w/ support from Springfield BID / Rally towel & magnet schedule giveaway (all fans) 
Sunday, Oct. 11 vs. CLT, 3:05 p.m.: Kids Opening Night pres. by MGM Springfield  w/ Postgame Skate / Character Appearances
Friday, Oct. 16 vs. LV, 7:05 p.m.: 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / Pregame Concert
Saturday, Oct. 17 vs. LV, 6:05 p.m.: Boots N' Brews Country Night & Brewfest pres. by Nutrl Vodka Seltzer - Pregame Tasting Event / T-Birds Boot Glass giveaway
Friday, Oct. 30 vs. PRO, 7:05 p.m.: 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / Pregame Concert / Halloween Trunk or Treat at The Landing (pregame)

November:
Sunday, Nov. 1 vs. HFD, 3:05 p.m.: Pucks & Paws pres. by Pet Supplies Plus to benefit Foundation for TJO Animals (poop bag giveaway) / Braman Pest Control I-91 Rivalry / Sunday Funday Character Appearances & Postgame Skate
Friday, Nov. 6 vs. HER, 7:05 p.m.: 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / 6-7 Weekend
Saturday, Nov. 7 vs. HER, 6:05 p.m.: Promotion TBD - Stay Tuned!
Tuesday, Nov. 10 vs. HFD, 10:35 a.m.: School Day Game pres. by Fontaine Bros. Construction & MassMutual / T-Birds Workbook giveaway (all students) / Mass Lottery Winning Weekday / Braman Pest Control I-91 Rivalry
Friday, Nov. 20 vs. CLT, 7:05 p.m.: Mayflower Marathon Kickoff pres. by Rock 102 / Pregame Food Drive / Goalie Glove Oven Mitt giveaway pres. by Buffalo Wild Wings (first 2,500 fans) / 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / Pregame Concert 
Saturday, Nov. 28 vs. UTC, 6:05 p.m.: Hockey Fights Cancer Night

December:
Friday, Dec. 4 vs. PRO, 7:05 p.m.: 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / Pregame Concert 
Saturday, Dec. 5 vs. UTC, 6:05 p.m.: Teddy Bear Toss pres. by Teddy Bear Pools & Spas ft. Adult-Sized Jersey giveaway / Specialty Jersey Auction
Saturday, Dec. 12 vs. ROC, 6:05 p.m.: Boomer Ornament giveaway pres. by Window World of Western Mass
Wednesday, Dec. 16 vs. PRO, 7:05 p.m.: Mass Lottery Winning Weekday / 413 Deals
Sunday, Dec. 27 vs. PRO, 3:05 p.m.: Sunday Funday ft. Mystery Promo / Postgame Skate / Character Appearance
Wednesday, Dec. 30 vs. HFD, 7:05 p.m.: T-Birds Mite Jamboree / Mass Lottery Winning Weekday ft. 413 Deals / Youth Jersey giveaway pres. by Springfield Pharmacy / Braman Pest Control I-91 Rivalry

January:
Saturday, Jan. 2 vs. PRO, 6:05 p.m.: Shoresy Night ft. "Hitch" Appearance (Terry Ryan) 
Sunday, Jan. 3 vs. WBS, 3:05 p.m.: Check on Your Teammates (Mental Health Awareness Night) / Character Appearances / Postgame Skate
Wednesday, Jan. 13 vs. PRO, 7:05 p.m.: Mass Lottery Winning Weekday / 413 Deals
Saturday, Jan. 16 vs. HFD, 6:05 p.m.: Springfield Hockey Heritage Night pres. by MassMutual - Celebrating 100 Years of Springfield Hockey / Specialty Jersey / Heritage Pennant giveaway (first 5,000 fans) / Braman Pest Control I-91 Rivalry
Monday, Jan. 18 vs. BEL, 3:05 p.m.: MLK Day Matinee ft. Kids Takeover pres. by Big Y / Mass Lottery Winning Weekday / Postgame Autograph Session w/ Poster giveaway (all fans)
Saturday, Jan. 23 vs. LV, 6:05 p.m.: Georgii Romanov "Slide" Bobblehead giveaway pres. by Stop & Shop (first 3,000 fans) 
Sunday, Jan. 24 vs. PRO, 3:05 p.m.: Boomer's Birthday Bash / Character Appearances / Postgame Skate
Friday, Jan. 29 vs. WBS, 7:05 p.m.: 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / Pregame Concert / Game Presented by A. Crane Construction
Saturday, Jan. 30 vs. WBS, 6:05 p.m.: Military Appreciation Night pres. by King Gray Coach Lines / Boonie Hat giveaway (first 2,500 fans)

February:
Wednesday, Feb. 17 vs. HFD, 7:05 p.m.: Mass Lottery Winning Weekday / 413 Deals / Game Presented by Texas Pete & Green Mountain Gringo
Saturday, Feb. 20 vs. SD, 6:05 p.m.: Ice-O-Topes Night pres. by Balise / Specialty Jerseys / Braman Pest Control I-91 Rivalry
Sunday, Feb. 21 vs. SD, 3:05 p.m.: Sensory Friendly Sunday pres. by CHD / Character Appearances / Postgame Skate

March:
Friday, March 5 vs. SYR, 7:05 p.m.: 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / Pregame Concert
Saturday, March 6 vs. PRO, 6:05 p.m.: Pink in the Rink pres. by Baystate Health to benefit Rays of Hope / Specialty Jersey Auction
Wednesday, March 10 vs. CLT, 6:05 p.m.: Promotional News Coming Soon!
Friday, March 12 vs. CLT, 7:05 p.m.: 413 Fridays pres. by MGM Springfield / Pregame Concert / Game Presented by Beauty Batlles Lounge
Saturday, March 13 vs. HAM, 6:05 p.m.: Irish Night / Scally Cap giveaway pres. by Callaway

April:
Saturday, April 3 vs. HFD, 6:05 p.m.: Hometown Heroes pres. by M&T Bank / Pregame Block Party + Touch-a-Truck / Braman Pest Control I-91 Rivalry
Sunday, April 4 vs. HER, 3:05 p.m.: MGM Fan Appreciation Day / Community Bank N.A. Pregame Block Party @ The Landing / Postgame Paint the Ice pres. by Rocky's Ace Hardware / Character Appearances

Single game tickets for the 2026-27 season will are now on sale! Purchase tickets and see the full T-Birds schedule right now by clicking here.

Fans are encouraged to follow the Thunderbirds on social media (@ThunderbirdsAHL) closely in the coming days for more T-Birds news and further promotional announcements. 

Springfield Thunderbirds fans are encouraged to visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com to learn more about 2026-27 Ticket Memberships, which feature the best benefits, including a season ticket holder jersey. For more information or to order now, call (413) 739-GOAL (4625).