Devils kick off new season with red carpet, Fan Fest and home opener in Newark
Fans are celebrating the return of Devils hockey at Prudential Center, with live entertainment, player appearances and festivities surrounding Thursday night's matchup against Philadelphia.
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The New Jersey Devils are rolling out the red carpet in Newark Thursday as they kick off the 2026-27 season against the Philadelphia Flyers at Prudential Center.
The home opener is about more than hockey, with an afternoon of festivities on Championship Plaza, including player appearances, live entertainment, food trucks and activities for fans of all ages.
Championship Plaza was scheduled to open to fans at 3 p.m., with red carpet arrivals planned for approximately 4 p.m. Devils players are scheduled to walk the carpet ahead of their first home game of the season.
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A Fan Fest follows the red carpet festivities, featuring performances by Lulu and The Scouts and TJ the DJ, along with appearances by mascot NJ Devil, the Woo Crew and Devils alumni. Food trucks, games and other activities are also part of the celebration.
What fans should know before arriving
Fans attending Thursday's game should also be aware of Prudential Center's bag policy. According to the Devils, bags larger than 14 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches, backpacks of any kind, large duffel bags, coolers and hard-sided bags are prohibited.
All other bags are subject to hand-screening or X-ray screening before entry. Parenting bags and medically necessary bags may be exempt from size restrictions but must undergo X-ray screening.
The full policy is available on Prudential Center's website.
More to enjoy inside Prudential Center
Inside Prudential Center, fans will be welcomed with a player introduction ceremony and receive complimentary LED light sticks, courtesy of Citizens. The Benjamins are scheduled to perform during both intermissions.
There is also some distinctly New Jersey flavor on the concession menu. Rutt's Hut, the Clifton institution known for its hot dogs, is featured at Section 15. Fans looking for a souvenir can pick up an exclusive home-opener puck or pin at the Devils Den.
The evening will also feature recognition of Marine Corps Cpl. Alex Hernandez of Moonachie as the Hero of the Game, while Wes Bogatz of the Cranford Hockey Club will serve as junior captain.
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The Devils, led by head coach Sheldon Keefe, begin the new campaign with familiar faces including Nico Hischier, Jack Hughes, Luke Hughes and Jesper Bratt.
The Devils face Philadelphia at 7 p.m. The game will be available on ESPN+, Hulu and the Devils Hockey Network.
