The roar of fighter jets, the clash of sticks on ice, and the crackle of fireworks—all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Sopris. On Dec. 14, the Steadman Phillipson Outdoor Arena will transform into a coliseum of hockey greatness as the NHL Alumni Winter Classic returns for its second year.

Once again, the Colorado Extreme hockey program is transforming its home into the stage for an unforgettable spectacle — not just a game, but an experience. Imagine greats such as Henrik Lundqvist between the pipes, Paul Stastny threading perfect passes, and Milan Hejduk lighting the lamp — all while Avalanche legends like John-Michael Liles and Kyle Quincey square off against former NHL stars such as P.A. Parenteau, Scottie Upshall, and Paul Bissonnette.

“For this community to host something like this, it’s incredible,” Colorado Extreme Founder Sheldon Wolitski said. “We’ve got legends, celebrities, and a valley full of people who are coming together to make this a memorable event. It’s about so much more than hockey—it’s about creating something special for everyone involved.”

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The puck drops at 3:05 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, but the excitement begins earlier. A 3 p.m. fighter jet flyover will set the tone, and fireworks at 4:30 p.m. will light up the night in a fitting finale.

Hockey meets high country

The Steadman Phillipon Outdoor Arena, perched on the the side of Mount Sopris, is no ordinary rink. Its breathtaking views and unique atmosphere have quickly made it one of the most talked-about venues in Roaring Fork Valley hockey.

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“This rink has a magic to it,” 15-year NHL veteran Upshall said, who played in last year’s inaugural event. “You’ve got the mountains surrounding you, the fans right there at the boards, and the energy that comes from being outdoors in a place like this. It’s something you don’t forget.”

Following a frigid 6 p.m. puck drop a year ago, the move to an afternoon game this year was deliberate, designed to take full advantage of the setting and make the event even more enjoyable for fans.

“Last year, we were all freezing out there,” said Bryan Berard, president of Colorado Extreme and a former NHL first-round pick. “This year, playing in the afternoon is going to be a game-changer. It’s going to be warmer, the lighting will be incredible, and it’ll feel like one of those classic outdoor hockey experiences.”

A deeper purpose

While the Winter Classic delivers star power and unforgettable moments, its real impact lies in supporting the Colorado Extreme Hockey Club. Founded by Wolitski in 2021, the program provides free hockey opportunities for kids in the Roaring Fork Valley, covering costs like equipment, ice time, and coaching.

“Hockey shaped who I am,” Wolitski said. “It taught me lessons about character, perseverance, and teamwork. That’s what we’re trying to pass on to these kids—giving them a chance to learn, grow, and dream bigger than they ever thought possible.”

Berard, who joined Colorado Extreme after attending last year’s event, has been instrumental in growing the Winter Classic and expanding the program’s reach.

“This isn’t just about a game,” Berard said. “It’s about giving kids the chance to experience hockey and everything it teaches. We’re building something here that can change lives, and that’s what makes all of this worth it.”

A weekend to remember

The excitement kicks off with Friday, Dec. 13’s evening gala at the summit of Aspen Mountain. Featuring NHL legends, celebrity guests, and live performances by Paul Cauthen, Dustin Lynch, and Marc Labell, the evening blends high-end entertainment with intimate connections between fans and players.

“The gala is special,” Wolitski said. “It’s a chance to bring everyone together — to celebrate hockey, the community, and the people who make this event possible. It’s about more than autographs or photo ops — it’s about creating something lasting.”

Upshall agreed, noting how much the event has grown in just one year.

“Last year, they pulled this off with barely any time to plan,” Upshall said. “This year, they’ve had the chance to make it bigger and better, and you can feel how much everyone is looking forward to it. From the gala to the game, it’s going to be something really special.”

The game itself, featuring nearly a full roster of NHL alumni, will offer fans a mix of high-level skill and lighthearted fun. Fans can also purchase tickets for exclusive experiences like meeting players, getting autographs, and taking home signed memorabilia.

“This is about creating memories,” Berard said. “For the kids, for the fans, for the players—this event is about bringing people together and making a difference.”

“Carbondale doesn’t get events like this every day,” Wolitski added. “It’s going to be unforgettable.”

For more information and tickets, visit coloradoextreme.org.