Hockey is back in Pittsburgh, and the Penguins are ready to give the home crowd a show. On Thursday, October 22, 2026, the Pittsburgh Penguins host the Florida Panthers at PPG Paints Arena in a marquee early-season NHL matchup. Puck drops at 7:00 PM ET.
There is nothing quite like a hockey night in Pittsburgh. The arena lights up as nearly 18,000 fans fill the stands, the organ roars, and the black-and-gold faithful create one of the loudest atmospheres in the National Hockey League. A visit from the Panthers — a fast, physical Eastern Conference rival — promises exactly the kind of high-intensity October hockey that makes the regular season feel electric.
Why you should be there
- Early-season momentum: October games set the tone for the long NHL campaign, and every point counts in the playoff race.
- A marquee opponent: The Panthers bring star power and speed to Pittsburgh every time they visit.
- The full game-night experience: From the pregame warmups to the final horn, PPG Paints Arena delivers world-class entertainment, local food concessions, and fan activities for all ages.
Practical information
- Date and time: Thursday, October 22, 2026, 7:00 PM ET.
- Venue: PPG Paints Arena, 1001 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 — a short walk from downtown Pittsburgh, with easy access via public transit (Steel Plaza station) and nearby parking garages.
- Tickets: Buy official tickets here. Seats in the lower bowl go fast for marquee matchups, so book early for the best selection.
- Tips: Arrive early to catch warmups and enjoy the concourse; doors typically open well before puck drop. Public transit or rideshare is the easiest way to reach the arena on game night.
Whether you are a lifelong Penguins fan or visiting Pittsburgh for the first time, an October night at PPG Paints Arena is one of the best ways to feel the city’s sports spirit. See you at the game — let’s go Pens!
Photo: Jleedev, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh).
