The Montreal Canadiens are set to take on the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup final on Friday night — and hopeful Habs fans can take it all in at a free outdoor viewing party.
Under the plan, tickets are being offered online for those wishing to take part in the NHL playoff event in Montreal’s entertainment district known as Quartier des Spectacles.
Anyone who wants to attend must reserve a ticket in advance — and there is a cap on how many spectators can be there for each game.
Organizers released additional details about the party, which comes after Quebec public health denied a request to allow more fans into the Bell Centre due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
On Friday, Quebec began permitting up to 5,000 people to gather for festivals and outdoor events, up from a previous maximum capacity of 3,500. The allowance includes distancing and masks when moving about.
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At Quartier des Spectacles, a total of 4,335 fans will be allowed on-site and they will be divided into three distinct sections.
People are encouraged to wear masks, and physical distancing of two metres must be respected to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. Security agents will be present to ensure people are following the rules.
Organizers are also asking anyone who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or has come into contact with someone who tested positive for the virus to stay home.
Olympic Stadium viewing party
For those outside of the downtown core, a viewing party will also be held outside the Olympic Stadium in Montreal’s east end.
The Société de développement et de mise en valeur du Parc olympique, which is overseeing the event, says that up to 3,500 people are allowed to attend on the esplanade.
The initiative is free, but tickets must be reserved online in advance in order to attend. One person can reserve up to four tickets at a time.
Masks are mandatory except for when fans are eating or drinking, according to the organization. Attendees will also be required to answer a verbal COVID-19 questionnaire when they are on site.
The Lightning lead the series 2-0 after winning back-to-back games in Florida earlier this week. The Habs will host the team at the Bell Centre on Friday night with 3,500 fans in the audience.
—With files from The Canadian Press