If you’re a hockey fan, summer is quite possibly the longest season ever—but today, we’re happy to report that WHL hockey is officially back in Victoria!
The Victoria Royals will hit the ice this evening in what is not only their home opener, but the first game of the regular season, facing the brand-new Penticton Vees. Puck drop is slated for 7:05 p.m., and there are limited tickets available!
Join the capital city in cheering on our very own Royals and grab your tickets here, and while you’re at it, check out these 7 things to know about the home opener happening tonight:
1. Plaza party prior to puck-drop
Can’t wait to get to the rink tonight? Us too! Luckily for us, the Royals are hosting a pre-game party on the plaza prior to puck-drop—enjoy BBQ, live music, beer gardens and more.
Come early and get ready for a night to remember!
2. Pre-game perks
As if a party wasn’t enough, the Royals are gifting those who come early—in the form of free swag!
The first 1000 fans to SOFMC tonight will get their hands on a free t-shirt, with additional giveaways throughout the evening, courtesy of RE/MAX.
3. A sweet happy hour deal
The perks continue if you make it to the game early!
Take advantage of the brand new HAPPY 1/2 HOUR—$4 Stanley Park Brewing Beer from 5:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. only during the Pre-Game Plaza Party.
4. New merch
Have you checked out the Royals new merch line-up? It’s worth checking out in person, and if you can’t make it, you can always shop online!
5. Very first contest versus the Vees
First game back, and first game versus the new kids on the block!
As a brand new team to the WHL, the Penticton Vees have no history with the Victoria Royals as of yet.
That being said, as the newest members of the BC Division, the Vees will undoubtedly become a familiar rival for the Royals, and another team to compete with for a playoff spot.
As the first matchup between the Royals and the Vees, history begins tonight.
6. A captain is crowned
Hot off the press, the Royals recently announced that veteran forward Reggie Newman has been named the 10th captain in club history!
His 5th season with the club, Newman looks to lead the charge as the Royals head into the 2025/26 season.
7. Going green
Starting with Friday’s Home Opener, fans on the Fan Deck will be the first to experience a new reusable cup and container program at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.
In partnership with Canadian reuse provider Friendlier, the Royals are helping reduce single-use waste by serving drinks and premium food in durable, reusable items.
Simply drop your cups and containers in the convenient return bins after use, and they’ll be cleaned, sanitized, and reused.
Victoria Royals vs. Penticton Vees – Home Opener
- Where: Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
- When: Friday, September 19th – puck drop at 7:05 p.m.
- Tickets: Grab yours here!
