The St. Louis Blues are one of the most storied franchises in the National Hockey League (NHL). Established in 1967, the Blues have become a beloved team for fans in St. Louis and beyond. Whether you are a die-hard supporter or a casual observer, attending a St. Louis Blues game is an experience full of excitement, energy, and passion for the sport. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about St. Louis Blues games, from the history of the team to the game-day experience, and even the best ways to get tickets.
A Brief History of the St. Louis Blues
The Early Years
The St. Louis Blues were part of the NHL’s first expansion in 1967, which doubled the league from six to twelve teams. While some expansion teams struggled, the Blues found immediate success. Under the leadership of coaches such as Scotty Bowman, the Blues reached the Stanley Cup Final in each of their first three seasons, although they were unable to secure a championship during that time.
Years of Struggle
After their early success, the Blues faced a long period of struggles. From the mid-1970s through the 1990s, the team consistently made the playoffs but could never get over the hump to win the Stanley Cup. Players like Brett Hull, Bernie Federko, and Al MacInnis became legends during this period, with Hull especially known for his goal-scoring prowess.
The Stanley Cup Victory of 2019
Everything changed for the Blues in 2019. After decades of frustration, the team won its first-ever Stanley Cup, defeating the Boston Bruins in seven games. It was a historic moment for the city of St. Louis and its fans, who had waited over 50 years for the elusive championship. The 2019 victory solidified the Blues’ place in NHL history and boosted their fanbase to new heights.
Game Day Atmosphere
Enterprise Center: The Home of the Blues
The St. Louis Blues play their home games at the Enterprise Center, located in downtown St. Louis. The arena, which opened in 1994, can hold up to 19,150 fans for hockey games. It’s known for its modern amenities, passionate crowds, and electric atmosphere.
Attending a Blues game at Enterprise Center is a thrilling experience. From the moment you step into the arena, you can feel the energy in the air. The team’s blue and yellow colors dominate the decor, and the sound of fans chanting and cheering fills the space.
The Blue Note
One of the most recognizable symbols in the NHL is the St. Louis Blues’ logo, also known as the Blue Note. This musical note is a nod to the city’s rich musical history, particularly its association with jazz and blues music. When fans attend a Blues game, they proudly wear jerseys and apparel featuring this iconic logo.
Pregame Festivities
Blues fans know how to make a game day special. Before every home game, the area around the Enterprise Center comes alive with activity. Whether it’s grabbing a bite at a nearby restaurant, tailgating with fellow fans, or checking out the official team store for Blues merchandise, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Inside the arena, fans are treated to a pregame show that includes highlights, music, and special effects. The lights dim, the video screen ignites with fiery graphics, and the players make their dramatic entrance to the ice as the crowd roars in approval.
Intermission Entertainment
During intermissions, fans can grab snacks, enjoy a beverage, or watch entertaining performances that range from youth hockey games to live music. The Blues’ game day staff keeps the crowd entertained with various contests and giveaways.
Key Players to Watch
Vladimir Tarasenko
Vladimir Tarasenko is one of the most important players in the modern era of the St. Louis Blues. Known for his incredible shooting ability and offensive talent, Tarasenko has been a cornerstone of the team since joining in 2012. His presence on the ice is a constant threat to opposing defenses, and his ability to score in clutch moments has made him a fan favorite.
Ryan O’Reilly
Another player who has made a significant impact on the Blues is Ryan O’Reilly. O’Reilly was named the Conn Smythe Trophy winner as the MVP of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, playing a critical role in the Blues’ championship run. His leadership, two-way play, and face-off dominance make him a key player to watch at every game.
Jordan Binnington
The Blues’ Stanley Cup run would not have been possible without the stellar play of Jordan Binnington. The goaltender made his NHL debut during the 2018-2019 season and quickly became a hero for Blues fans. His clutch saves and calm demeanor under pressure were vital to the team’s success, and he remains one of the most exciting goaltenders in the league.
The Game Experience
The Chants and Cheers
The St. Louis Blues fans are some of the most passionate in the NHL, and they have several chants and cheers that are a big part of the game-day experience. One of the most famous is the chant of “Let’s Go Blues!” which echoes throughout the arena whenever the team is in need of a boost. Fans also love to get involved during power plays, penalty kills, and key moments by making noise and showing their support.
Blues Music
In keeping with the team’s name and its connection to the city’s musical heritage, music plays a big role in the game-day experience. Before every game, fans can hear classic blues songs played over the speakers, adding to the unique atmosphere. The team’s victory song, “Gloria” by Laura Branigan, has also become an iconic part of Blues culture, especially after their 2019 Stanley Cup run.
The Rivalries
Attending a game against one of the Blues’ rivals can take the excitement to another level. The Chicago Blackhawks are perhaps the team’s biggest rival, and games between these two teams are always intense. Other notable rivalries include the Dallas Stars, Minnesota Wild, and the Nashville Predators. These matchups often result in hard-hitting, fast-paced hockey that leaves fans on the edge of their seats.
Getting Tickets to St. Louis Blues Games
Official Team Website
One of the best ways to secure tickets to a St. Louis Blues game is by visiting the team’s official website. The website allows fans to buy tickets directly from the team, ensuring that they get official seats without the risk of fraudulent sellers.
Ticket Resale Platforms
If games are sold out or if you are looking for a deal, several ticket resale platforms like StubHub, Vivid Seats, and SeatGeek offer tickets to Blues games. Keep in mind that prices on these platforms can fluctuate depending on demand and the opponent.
Season Tickets and Packages
For fans who want to attend multiple games throughout the season, season tickets or partial ticket packages can be a great investment. The Blues offer a variety of packages that allow fans to choose how many games they want to attend, with different seating options to fit various budgets.
Best Times to Attend a Game
Weekend Games
Weekend games are often the most popular, as fans can enjoy a night out without worrying about work the next day. Saturday night games, in particular, tend to have a lively atmosphere, with larger crowds and plenty of pre- and post-game activities in the downtown St. Louis area.
Rivalry Games
If you are looking for a truly memorable experience, try to attend a game against one of the Blues’ major rivals. These games are typically more intense, and the energy in the arena is palpable. As mentioned earlier, matchups against the Chicago Blackhawks are especially heated and exciting.
Playoff Games
While regular-season games are fun, there’s nothing quite like attending a Stanley Cup Playoff game. The stakes are higher, the tension is thicker, and every moment feels crucial. If you have the chance to attend a playoff game, you won’t be disappointed.
Blues Merchandise and Souvenirs
Jerseys and Apparel
One of the most popular items for Blues fans to purchase at games is the team’s official jersey. Whether it’s a throwback style or the latest design, wearing a Blues jersey to the game is a must for many fans. Other popular items include t-shirts, hats, and scarves, all of which feature the team’s iconic blue and yellow colors.
Game Day Souvenirs
In addition to jerseys and apparel, fans can purchase a wide variety of souvenirs at the game. From pucks and keychains to posters and autographed memorabilia, there are plenty of ways to bring a piece of the game home with you.
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Attending a St. Louis Blues game is an unforgettable experience for hockey fans of all ages. From the rich history of the team to the thrilling game-day atmosphere, there’s something special about watching the Blues play at the Enterprise Center. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the sport, catching a Blues game in person is sure to leave you with lasting memories. With passionate fans, exciting rivalries, and star players, the St. Louis Blues truly offer one of the best hockey experiences in the NHL.
So, grab your Blue Note jersey, head down to Enterprise Center, and get ready to cheer on the Blues to victory!