Hockey season is almost here, Tampa. And while the Lightning are getting ready to hit the ice, they’re also bringing plenty of good times off of it, too, thanks to a full week of events leading up to their regular season home opener.
Lightning Launch Week runs from Sunday, September 27 through Saturday, October 3. There will be a themed vintage market, trivia, fitness, giveaways, and watch parties throughout Tampa Bay ahead of the team’s home opener at Benchmark International Arena on October 3.
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The Bolts have already begun preseason play, and tickets for individual games are available here. Pro tip: college students can get tickets for as low as $18.
Regardless of whether you’re a diehard Bolts fan or if you’re just looking for something fun to do around town, here’s what’s happening throughout Lightning Launch week.
Sunday, September 27: Bolts Vintage x Mezzo Market
Launch Week starts with a vintage market on Ford Thunder Alley from 10AM-2PM. Come and jam out while finding your next statement piece.
The Bolts Vintage x Mezzo Market, presented by Florida Blue, will feature more than 40 vendors selling vintage apparel, collectibles and other nostalgic finds, along with local creative and streetwear offerings. There will also be a DJ on the Porch.
Monday, September 28–Friday, October 2: Find the Bolt
Think you know Tampa Bay? This scavenger hunt will test that.
Throughout the week, the Lightning will hide a Lightning Bolt somewhere around the Tampa Bay area each day. Clues will be posted through the team’s social media channels. The first fan to find the Bolt each day will take home an exclusive prize.
Tuesday, September 29: Lightning Pilates
Apparently, getting hyped for hockey season can count as cardio.
The Lightning are bringing a 90-minute Pilates session to Armature Works on Tuesday, with the West Lawn turning into a full-on Bolts workout party from 6:30PM to 8:30PM. There’ll be a live DJ, giveaways and treats from Fit Bowl, so you can work your core and game-day spirit simultaneously.
Wednesday, September 30: Lightning Trivia Night
Put your Bolts knowledge to the test. These four local spots will be hosting special Lightning-themed trivia rounds:
Pinellas Ale Works in St. Pete at 7PM, (1962 1st Ave S, St Petersburg, FL 33712)
Tamiami Tap in Sarasota at 7PM, (711 S Osprey Ave #3, Sarasota, FL 34236)
Top Shelf Sports Lounge in Wesley Chapel at 7:30PM, (3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544)
The Blind Goat in Tampa at 8PM (4106 Henderson Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629)
Thursday, October 1: Bolts Watch Party
The Lightning may be kicking off the season in New York, but Tampa Bay isn’t about to let them celebrate without us.
Their first game of the season takes them to Madison Square Garden to face the New York Rangers. Fans can celebrate together at a Tier 1 watch party presented by Jai Alai. The party begins at 7PM, with the location TBA.
Friday, October 2: Blue Cup Day
Friday introduces a brand-new annual Lightning tradition: Blue Cup Day, an annual celebration marking the return of Bolts hockey.
Participating coffee shops around Tampa Bay will give the first 50 paying customers a limited-edition commemorative Blue Cup, along with chances to win surprise giveaways.
Participating locations include The Lab (West Tampa & Seminole Heights), Shortwave (Channelside), Flatbread & Butter (Downtown Tampa & Downtown St. Pete), Lady & The Mug (Tampa), Intermezzo (St. Pete), Grove Surf Café (Indian Rocks Beach & St. Pete Beach) with multiple locations participating for some businesses.
Saturday, October 3: Home Opener
Lightning Launch Week wraps up with the team’s home opener against the Washington Capitals at Benchmark International Arena at 7PM.
Before the game, fans can catch the return of the Lightning Blue Carpet Walk beginning at 3:45PM on Ford Thunder Alley as players arrive and greet fans.
Fans will also have the opportunity to take photos with three major NHL trophies: the Hart Memorial Trophy, Jack Adams Award and Vezina Trophy.
More than hockey: bringing Tampa Bay together
From vintage markets and Pilates to trivia, coffee and watch parties, Lightning Launch Week gives fans plenty of ways to get involved before the home opener even arrives. With a full week of events happening around Tampa Bay, the Lightning are making it clear that the start of hockey season is about more than what happens on the ice.
