Fans gather for NHL Winter Classic at Gillette

December 31, 2015 5:21 pm

By Bianca Buono

bbuono@abc6.com

Hockey has officially taken of Foxboro! The crowds flooded the parking lot at Gillette Stadium Thursday, all there for the NHL Marquee regular season event–the Winter Classic.

The former greats of the Bruins and Montreal Canadiens are battling it out on the ice inside but if you don’t have ticket to the Alumni game or the New Year’s Day game, there’s still lots to do right in the parking lot.

"It’s fabulous, there’s so much to do. We’ve only walked up and down a little bit but it looks like everybody’s having a good time," said Kathy Mars, of Woburn.

The puck doesn’t drop until Friday, but fans are out in full force at the spectator plaza.

"It’s a beautiful day. It’s a little windy. There seems to be a lot of activities and a lot of promotions for the kids," said Tracy Owens, of Westborough.

The free fan festival has everything from shooting drills to goalie practice. There’s something for everyone in the family no matter what jersey you’re wearing.

One mother daughter duo traveled all the way from Montreal for the two-day affair.

"I’m a big Habs fan and I have to say I love the city of Boston, so when she said it was here we said, ‘alright,’ and came down just the two of us," said Silvia Brind’Amour.

"Whoever wins or loses, it’s just an experience to be here, so we’re very excited," said and Cynthia Brind’Amour.

The Bruins take on the Montreal Canadiens Friday at 1 p.m. The spectator plaza will be open again from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and you do not need a ticket.