It's been a good week for hockey fans in the Tampa Bay area and beyond. This past wednesday, National Hockey League owners ratified a new, collective bargaining agreement between the league and players, ending the league's four-month lockout and commencing an abbreviated 48-game NHL season in 2013.
The Tampa Bay Lightning will commemorate the occasion with a free and family-friendly Fan Fest they'll be hosting at the Tampa Bay Time Forum this Sunday, January 13.
Lightning players will begin the Fan Fest by signing autographs from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. Then, team management, coaches and broadcasters will host a commentary session regarding the lockout and the future for Lightning hockey.
The Tampa Bay Lightning will kick off the first official practice session of their 20th anniversary season from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.
In addition, there will also be a Kids Zone featuring the Thunderbug and a first glimpse of the Forum's new center-hung video board, which is the largest in any North American arena, according to the Tampa Tribune.
Those in attendance will also get the first opportunity to purchase single-game tickets for the upcoming 2013 season as well as 50 percent off select merchandise and food/drink specials during the Fest.
Doors to the Fan Fest open at 9 a.m. Fans are encouraged to park in the Forum's East or West lots and enter through the arena's main entrance.
Tampa Bay Lightning's abbreviated 2013 season will kick off on January 19 against the Washington Capitals. For more information, check out the 2013 Lightning Fan Fest event page on Facebook.
