How to create the best Habs fan ‘homegating’ experience
While there’s no better hockey experience than watching an NHL game at the Bell Center and its electric atmosphere, some of us just can’t make it for every game (unlike guys in neon coats). The rest of us just have to settle for a little homegating. What is home gating you might be wondering? It’s all the fun of riding your best team’s event, but in the comfort of your own home.
Homegating can be almost as fun as attending a live game, and if you start crying from frustration, there’s no chance you’ll be caught on the jumbotron for the world to laugh and point at you. The worst case scenario might be a photo taken by your significant other and posted to Instagram.
Make yourself comfortable because the 2022/23 season is about to start and the best way to absorb the good, the bad and the ugly is to take a page from the book of habs and get started building ourselves the best Homegate party!
Dust off your favorite jersey
Deciding which jersey to start the season with is always a difficult one. Going for a classic Guy Lafleur? Sticking with the ever-loyal Carey Price? Or put on that Cole Caufield sweater because you know the kid will bring it this season? Anyway, you know you can always change it midway through the second period if things go horribly wrong.
Secret handshakes
Not smart enough for a spectacular handshake? Break out a vintage triple low five. After a good win…or even an “I can’t believe we won that one” win, grab your best buddy and give him the old one-two-three celebration.
24 hanging Stanley cup Banners around your room
Wait, you want to tell me it’s you Not Do you have 24 Stanley Cup banners just lying around your house? Not even mini versions? Then my friend, it’s time to get creative. Run to the kitchen, grab a handful of napkins, find a box of markers, some tape, and get to work.
Pass the torch…or maybe just a candle to be on the safe side
We’ve got some fresh faces joining us this season. Join the tradition of passing the torch by presenting a candle to the newest member of your party. Bonus points if they’re not a hockey fan and have no idea what’s going on.
beverages
It’s hockey season, so if you’re into alcoholic beverages, start the night off with a beer or three. If you’re not into alcoholic beverages, give him half a season and get back to me. Not a big beer drinker? Never be afraid! Just like changing jerseys, if things don’t go our way, head to the liquor cabinet to crack open the whiskey.
meal
Jersey? Check. Nimble wrists for triple low fives? Check. napkin banner? Check. Candle? Check. Two types of alcohol? Check. Now it’s time to really go all out.
Whether your Homegate party is a party for 1 or 20, variety is the spice of life. A little something for everyone is a nice touch, but when it’s season opener, home opener, weekend or playoff time, pizza and wings are a must. Want to make it to Montreal? Throw some smoked meat on your pizza, or some sauce and curds on your wings.
games
If your game ends up being a snoozer, channel your inner teen and add a drinking game! Have a drink every time the umpires make a great call. Uh, this is no fun. You’ll be sober all night. Try it. Try a beer every time you guess correctly if the goalie interference challenge is in fact a goalie interference. At least you have a 50/50 chance.
The beepers
Having the right people at your Homegate party is an absolute must. You need people to party with, argue with, or at least get away with for a few hours…six if it’s a crazy triple OT playoff game. If it’s a one-person party, I’m sure your four-legged friend won’t mind enjoying the game with you (and maybe a chicken wing with gravy and cheese). But if your pup is anything like mine, keep the partying to a minimum. She’s not a fan of high fives… or triple low fives, for that matter.
Now consider yourself all set for tonight’s season opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs! Sure they may have the Bell Center, but now you have something even better.
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