South Florida boasts many different types of sporting events to enjoy. Yet there are some sport experiences people need to witness in person at least once in their life. Many readers wonder, “Isn’t hockey just a game that you can catch on TV?” The answer is simple: Not even close. Nothing compares to seeing an actual match in person. As a mom who does not follow professional hockey each season, I truly love nothing more than screaming and cheering on the Florida Panthers at FLA Live Arena!
The captivating pre-game experiences, feeling the infectious energy of the fans in the arena and of course, the excitement from cheering on your home team; is something you cannot recreate.
To share this moment with a child is even more special. Seeing their eyes light up as they enter FLA Live Arena for the first time, their enthusiasm during the game, and sharing game day together is a memory they will never forget.
Below is a step-by-step journey on how you can enjoy a family filled Panther’s game with kids.
Before the Game
The fun starts before the puck drops! FLA Live hosts a plethora of theme nights to engage children, families, military members and more. One of the hesitations some parents have with a high intensity sport like hockey is, “Is it kid friendly”? Even if you don’t attend a themed night, the Florida Panthers do a great job at including children of all ages. Make sure to stop at the Panther inflatable at the main doors for your first photo op! Or check out the Game Day treats. For Kids Day, we celebrated Stanley’s birthday with a special ice cream at Mister Softee carts. Of course, no game day is complete without some merchandise! Pantherland has anything new and long-term fans can dream of. Located at the Main Lobby of FLA Live Arena, Pantherland has everything from hats, jerseys, shirts to lanyards and cat ears (our favorite!)
Some of their upcoming promotional nights include:
- Star Wars Night, March 2, 2023, 7PM. Not only are these tickets inexpensive, but you also receive a T-shirt and access to meet and greet Star Wars characters. Florida Panthers play the Nashville Predators
- Mental Health Awareness Night, March 7, 2023 at 7:00 PM. Florida Panthers does an excellent job at recognizing the struggles society endures daily. At this great game, the Panthers play the Golden Knights and will sure to have plenty of hands on fun in the main lobby. Autism Acceptance Night is April 6, 2023 too!
Head over to the Fan page for lots more themed evenings!
Ticket to Fun
Don’t have tickets? You can buy tickets through the FLA Live Arena / Panthers website online or via any secured ticketing app. There truly isn’t one bad seat in the house and I attribute that to the energy of the fans. From lower levels to the 300 section, the higher you get, the more action seen from the entire ice. Large center screens make it easy to focus on each player and never miss a play. We love to purchase our single ticket games directly from the NHL Ticket Central website for the Florida Panthers. Sign up to receive discounts and promotions or view their premium seating options.
Hungry Hockey Bellies
There is plenty of awesome food options at a Panthers home game. From the delicious grab and go items like burgers or hot dogs to Ribs or a Cuban sandwich, there is no disappointment in the size and price from the concessions. When at an event with children, the last thing I want to do is stand in a long line with them. FLA Live offers mobile ordering to allow you to wait at your seat and receive a notification when everything is ready. For the beer lovers, Funky Buddha Brewery Tap Room and Jameson Crossbar offer bar experiences right on the main floor.
Game Time
It’s game time! Sit back, relax, and try to catch a t-shirt from the stands! Aside from all the action on the ice, have the kids watch for Stanley C. Panther, the animated cat fiercely engaging the crowd to cheer and scream at every play. He usually makes an appearance on the large score board to start the cheer throughout the game. The Florida Panthers Dancers will also take the ice at half time, and there is typically a few games and quizzes to engage the audience. Most importantly – soak in all the action. This is one special moment.
Join the Territory!
Take the experience beyond the game! How would you like to receive all-star presale access, exclusive benefits and tons of discounts? It’s all possible with the Territory Memberships. And for the kids, Panthers also has a free Kids Club to receive updates about kids events, virtual birthday card and lots more.
Tips for your visit:
- Allow at least one hour for the fun pre-game activities.
- Forgot about the bag policy? Check the FLA Live bag policy here.
- See the Den of Honor Exhibit
- Don’t be in a hurry to leave, it’s easier to exit with children after the bulk of the crowd departs.
- Don’t forget to take lots of pictures!
Leave a Reply