Hockey is back in full swing, and if you’re a veteran or part of a military family, there are more ways than ever to save big while cheering on your favorite NHL team.
From discounted tickets and special appreciation nights to budget hacks that help you avoid hidden costs, you can turn game day into an affordable family event.
We’ll walk you through how to score these perks, where to find the best deals, and how to make the most of your NHL experience this season.
Why the NHL Loves Military Families
The NHL deeply values veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Many organizations within the league recognize the vital role you play in your community and strive to offer:
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Military Appreciation Nights: Games that include tributes, color guards, or ceremonies.
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Discounted Tickets and Perks: Price cuts on seats, free parking, and concession deals.
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On-Ice Recognition: Shoutouts during intermissions or special pre-game ceremonies.
These programs aim to give back to those who’ve served and provide fun, family-friendly experiences at the rink. By bridging community and camaraderie, the NHL creates an environment where your family’s service is honored and appreciated.
Why the NHL Loves Military Families: Service members are a key part of many fan bases, and the NHL shows gratitude through discounted tickets, special tributes, and exclusive perks.
How Military Discounts Work at NHL Games
Military discounts are typically managed through verification platforms like GovX, Vet Tix, or Ticketmaster’s military portal. Once you confirm your eligibility, you’ll get access to special offers that range from 10% to 50% off standard prices.
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Verify Your Status: Provide proof of service (e.g., DD214, veteran ID, or active-duty credentials).
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Browse Discounted Games: Offers vary by date and seat selection.
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Purchase Tickets: Lock in your seats at the discounted rate (often with waived or reduced fees).
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Bring Your ID: Some teams ask to see your military or veteran ID at the gate.
Pro tip: For high-demand games—like weekend matchups or rivalry nights—grab your tickets early to avoid sellouts.
How Military Discounts Work: Verify your service status through GovX, Vet Tix, or Ticketmaster, then access discounted tickets (sometimes up to 50% off).
Full NHL Team Discount Table
Below is a complete list of NHL teams. Discount details beyond the four highlighted teams (Lightning, Avalanche, Capitals, Ducks) can change frequently, so always check each team’s official website or your preferred verification platform for the latest offers.
| Team | Discount Details | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| Anaheim Ducks | 20% off tickets, special family packages | GovX |
| Arizona Coyotes | 10-20% off select seats, occasional appreciation nights | Team website | GovX |
| Boston Bruins | 10-20% off select games, special military promos near Veterans Day | GovX | Team website |
| Buffalo Sabres | Varies (10-25% off), potential meet-and-greets for military nights | GovX | Ticketmaster Military Portal |
| Calgary Flames | 10-15% off seats for select games | Team website | GovX |
| Carolina Hurricanes | 10-20% off, possible “Military Salute” nights with extra perks | GovX | Ticket Office |
| Chicago Blackhawks | 10-20% off, occasionally free parking on military appreciation nights | GovX | Vet Tix |
| Colorado Avalanche | 15-20% off, plus military appreciation night perks | Ticketmaster military portal |
| Columbus Blue Jackets | 10-25% off select tickets | GovX | Team website |
| Dallas Stars | 10-20% off, extra deals for local bases | GovX | Vet Tix |
| Detroit Red Wings | 10-20% off select seats | GovX | Ticket Office |
| Edmonton Oilers | 10-15% off, special giveaways on appreciation nights | Team website | GovX |
| Florida Panthers | 10-20% off select seats, occasional freebies | GovX | Team website |
| Los Angeles Kings | 10-25% off, special events on certain nights | GovX | Ticketmaster Portal |
| Minnesota Wild | 10-15% off seats, special tributes during military nights | GovX | Team website |
| Montreal Canadiens | 10-15% off select games (limited availability) | Team website | Ticket Office |
| Nashville Predators | 10-20% off, family bundles on certain nights | GovX | Ticketmaster military portal |
| New Jersey Devils | 10-20% off tickets, possible free parking on military nights | GovX | Vet Tix |
| New York Islanders | 10-25% off select games, special recognition events | GovX | Team website |
| New York Rangers | 10-20% off select seats | GovX | Ticket Office |
| Ottawa Senators | 10-15% off, sometimes includes concession vouchers | Team website | GovX |
| Philadelphia Flyers | 10-20% off, occasional military-themed giveaways | GovX | Ticketmaster Portal |
| Pittsburgh Penguins | 10-20% off, special mention during home games for veterans | GovX | Vet Tix |
| San Jose Sharks | 10-20% off select seats | GovX | Team website |
| Seattle Kraken | 10-15% off tickets, new team with evolving military offers | GovX | Ticket Office |
| St. Louis Blues | 10-20% off seats, free or discounted parking for some games | GovX | Vet Tix |
| Tampa Bay Lightning | Up to 25% off select seats | GovX | Team website |
| Toronto Maple Leafs | 10-15% off select seats | Ticketmaster Military Portal | Team website |
| Vancouver Canucks | 10-15% off tickets, special deals near Canadian military events | Team website | GovX |
| Vegas Golden Knights | 10-20% off, in-game recognition for service members | GovX | Vet Tix |
| Washington Capitals | 10-30% off, free parking on select nights | Vet Tix | Team site |
| Winnipeg Jets | 10-20% off tickets, appreciation nights around Canadian forces | Team website | GovX |
Note: Discounts and terms are subject to change. Always verify your eligibility and confirm details on the team’s official website or a trusted military discount platform.
All NHL Teams: Almost every franchise offers military discounts. Check GovX, Vet Tix, Ticketmaster’s military portal, or each team’s website for the latest deals.
Timing Your Trip for Maximum Savings
How much you save often depends on when you go. NHL ticket prices can fluctuate based on day of the week, time of year, and an opponent’s popularity:
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Early Season (October–November): Ticket prices and crowds are typically lower.
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Weekday Games: Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually have fewer attendees, which can translate into better deals and less competition for discounted seats.
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Military Appreciation Nights: These often coincide with Veterans Day or other relevant dates, featuring extra perks like free concessions or merchandise.
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Last-Minute Steals: Verification platforms sometimes post heavily discounted tickets for games that haven’t sold out. Use caution, though—rivalry and weekend matchups rarely come cheap last-minute.
Timing Your Trip: Early-season and weekday games often deliver deeper discounts, plus less crowd congestion. Look for special military nights for added perks.
Beyond Tickets: Extra Perks for Military Families
Military benefits at NHL games don’t stop with seat discounts. Many teams provide add-ons that turn a simple trip into an unforgettable experience:
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Concession Discounts: Save 10-15% on food and drinks by showing a valid military or veteran ID.
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Exclusive Meet-and-Greets: Certain teams open up pregame or postgame interactions for service families.
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Kids’ Freebies: Reduced or free admission for children (with a military adult ticket) on select nights.
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Parking Deals: Some arenas offer free or discounted parking spots for verified veterans and active-duty members.
Organizations like the Carolina Hurricanes frequently host “Military Salute” nights that come with hats, T-shirts, or other team-branded merchandise.
Beyond Tickets: Look for discounts on concessions, merchandise, and parking—some teams even offer unique behind-the-scenes experiences for military families.
Budget Hacks for NHL Game Days
Even with discounts, costs can add up if you’re not careful. Try these hacks to stretch your dollar:
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Carpool or Public Transit: Split gas and parking fees or avoid them altogether by taking a train, bus, or subway.
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Pack Small Snacks: Many arenas allow sealed snacks or bottled water, which can save a fortune on concession prices.
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Skip Game-Day Souvenirs: Team stores often mark up merchandise. If your child wants a jersey, consider buying one online later.
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Family Four-Packs: Some teams bundle tickets, drinks, and snacks for one reduced rate.
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Arrive Early: Get prime parking spots and catch any pregame ceremonies dedicated to military members.
Budget Hacks: Use public transit, bring your own snacks, and shop for team gear online after the game to avoid costly arena markups.
Comparing Military Discounts Across Major Sports
If you enjoy multiple sports, you might wonder how the NHL compares in terms of value:
| League | Military Discount Range | Common Perks |
|---|---|---|
| NHL | 10-50% off | Free/discounted parking, meet-and-greets, swag |
| NFL | 10-30% off | Occasional freebies, but often limited |
| NBA | 15-25% off | Merch discounts, sometimes pregame access |
| MLB | 10-40% off | Family packs, special events throughout the season |
The NHL often provides broader event-focused perks (e.g., in-game tributes, free merchandise) compared to other leagues.
Comparing Discounts: The NHL holds its own with generous price cuts and family-friendly perks, rivaling other major pro sports.
Planning Your NHL Game Day as a Military Family
Ready to see your favorite players on the ice? Here’s your blueprint:
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Verify Eligibility Early: Platforms like GovX and Vet Tix can sell out, especially around marquee games.
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Pick the Best Date: Midweek or early-season games offer bigger discounts and smaller crowds.
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Arrange Transportation: Carpool, use rideshares, or take public transit to avoid high parking fees.
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Arrive Early: Get settled, snag the best seats, and enjoy military tributes if it’s a recognition night.
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Stick to a Budget: Decide in advance how much you’ll spend on concessions and souvenirs.
Planning Your NHL Game Day: Verify your status, pick the most budget-friendly date, travel smart, and plan your spending before heading to the rink.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do military families get NHL ticket discounts?
Use GovX, Vet Tix, or Ticketmaster’s military portal to verify your service. Then you can buy discounted tickets—some up to 50% off.
Which NHL teams offer the best military deals?
The Tampa Bay Lightning, Colorado Avalanche, Washington Capitals, and Anaheim Ducks stand out. However, all 32 teams have at least some form of discount.
Are military discounts available for playoff games?
They can be, but playoff tickets are often in high demand. Check official team sites for the most accurate information.
Can dependents also use military discounts?
Absolutely. Most teams allow spouses and children to receive discounts if the primary service member has verified status.
What’s the cheapest way to attend an NHL game?
Look for weekday matches, use your discount on sites like GovX, and consider public transit to save on parking and concessions.
Do all NHL arenas have military appreciation nights?
Most arenas host at least one such event, usually near Veterans Day. Some teams go above and beyond with additional recognition nights.
How early should I buy military discount tickets?
As soon as they’re available—weeks in advance if possible. High-profile games can sell out quickly, even with a discount.
Are there group discounts for military families?
Yes. Many teams offer group rates or family four-packs for military members. Call the ticket office or visit the team website for details.
Can veterans get NHL discounts too?
Indeed. Most discount platforms extend their deals to veterans, retirees, and active-duty personnel alike.
What other perks come with military tickets?
Possible freebies include discounted parking, special in-game recognition, concession deals, or even kids’ freebies.
The Bottom Line
Watching an NHL game live can be an unforgettable experience—especially for veterans and military families who can enjoy up to 50% off tickets and a host of exclusive perks.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the key to saving money is planning ahead. Verify your military status on trusted platforms, choose a budget-friendly date, and arrive early to enjoy the full range of benefits.
By combining these discounts with a few wallet-friendly hacks—like carpooling or packing snacks—you can treat your loved ones to top-tier hockey action without overspending. Lace up those skates (or just grab your seats) and get ready to cheer!
Levi Rodgers is the Founder of VA Loan Network, a leading resource for Veteran homebuyer education. A Retired Green Beret and Broker-Owner of LRG Realty in San Antonio, Levi leverages his military discipline and real-world real estate expertise to provide Veterans with expert loan advice, guidance, and trusted financial leadership.
