What to expect at a minor league hockey game
A minor league hockey game is close to the ice, loud and often built around families. If it is your first one, a little planning about time, clothing and rules makes the evening easier.
How long a game lasts
How long does a minor league hockey game last? On paper, 60 minutes. AHL, ECHL and SPHL games follow the same basic structure as the NHL: three periods of 20 minutes each, with an intermission after the first and second periods. Intermissions usually last around 15 to 20 minutes.
The clock, however, stops at every whistle: for offside, icing, goals, penalties and pucks that leave the ice. Add the intermissions and the evening is much longer than an hour. Around two and a half hours is a figure commonly quoted for AHL games, and a game that goes to overtime or a shootout runs a little longer.
What time will a 7pm hockey game end
If the puck drops at 7pm, a game decided in regulation time will typically finish somewhere around 9:30pm, give or take. Treat this as a rough guide, not a timetable. Pregame ceremonies, a long stoppage or overtime can move the end, so leave some slack before the last train or a babysitter's deadline.
When to arrive
How early should you arrive for a hockey game? There is no fixed rule, but getting there before the listed start helps. You have time to park, find your seats, buy food and watch the warm-up, when players skate and shoot on the ice before the game. Smaller arenas are quick to get around, but popular games and special promotions can bring queues at the doors.
What to wear
Is it cold at a hockey game? Cooler than most indoor venues, because the arena keeps a sheet of ice frozen. Seats near the glass are the coolest. Layers work best: a base layer, a sweater or hoodie and a light jacket you can take off if the arena warms up. Comfortable, closed shoes are a sensible choice. A team shirt or jersey over the top is welcome but never required.
Following the play
Minor league games often add entertainment around the hockey itself, aimed at making the evening fun for the whole family. Each team has its own way of doing this, so expect music, announcements and entertainment during the breaks.
The hockey itself is fast. A few rules explain most of the whistles you will hear: offside, icing and minor penalties. If a game is tied after three periods, AHL games go to a five-minute 3-on-3 overtime and then to a shootout. All of this is explained in plain words in hockey rules for beginners.
Where to find teams and tickets
The official league sites keep current team lists and maps: the AHL team directory, the ECHL team list and the SPHL website. Each team's own website has its schedule, ticket prices and arena information, including bag rules and parking. If you are not sure which league suits you, read AHL vs ECHL vs SPHL first.