Winnipeg Jets to host Montreal Canadiens in 2026 Heritage Classic

Princess Auto Stadium is well-known as the home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers but next October, it will be getting a special visitor.

NHL has officially announced that Winnipeg Jets will be the hosts of the 2026 Heritage Classic.

It’s the second time Winnipeg has hosted the event, last chosen back in 2016 hosting the Edmonton Oilers. 

In a statement from NHL president of events Steve Mayer said, “When Winnipeg hosted the Heritage Classic in 2016, we were blown away by the amazing fan response and how great the venue was. Given the success the Jets have had since we were last there, it’s fitting to bring another outdoor spectacle to Winnipeg.”

Connor Hrabchak, host of Winnipeg sports talk podcast, said, “You look at the game against the Edmonton Oilers, the Jets don’t end up with a goal in that game, but the support for it, the alumni game, everything of that weekend that the Jets had when it was here in 2016 was a success.”

Hrabchak added that getting hosting duties for the game was not only big for the Jets brand on a national level, but it was also some good news for the fans, during what’s been a disappointing season to date.

“Games like this, getting the support like this from the NHL, getting awarded a game like this, is absolutely something to be proud of as a Winnipeg Jets fan,” Hrabchak continued.

Winnipeggers who spoke to CityNews said they werre excited about the match up.

One fan said, “Oh I think it’s fantastic, it was a big hit last time, I’ve even got the jersey from it.”

“They support the Jets since they came back in 2011, I believe it was, and it’s hockey town, Winnipeg Jet Hockey Town for sure.”

“Winnipeg’s been in a drought for a while, so I think we need some good news to come to the city,” said another Winnipegger.

Another fan who loved the idea, said, “I hope I get to go to the game this time, I missed it last time.”

The Heritage Classic in Winnipeg is set for Oct. 25, 2026.