NEAR WEST SIDE — The Chicago Blackhawks are celebrating the start of the season with their annual red carpet extravaganza ahead of their home opener Sunday night.
During the “Hockey New Year!”-themed red carpet event —hosted inside the United Center’s new Atrium at 1901 W. Madison St. — fans get a chance to cheer on the team as they walk the red carpet ahead of the opening game.
NBC Sports Pat Boyle and Blackhawks studio host Steve Konroyd will emcee the celebration.
The free red carpet event kicks off at 3:30 p.m., and will showcase the current roster of players, with appearances by Blackhawk alums, the Ice Crew and food and drinks from Queenie’s and Mad West.
The first 1,000 fans to enter the Atrium will get a commemorative rally towel.
The celebration will culminate with a balloon drop to mark the start of the 2018-19 hockey season.
The home opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs kicks off at 6 p.m. Sunday.
Here’s a look at last year’s celebration.
