2026-27 NHL · the schedule
🏒 Opening week, the holidays
Two stretches the whole league watches
The season opens on a Tuesday for the first time in years, September 29, with the first full sixteen-game slate two weeks later on October 13. The holiday stretch runs December 26 through New Year's Day — the busiest week of the winter and the last look at every team before the trade chatter starts.
Opening week September 29 to October 4
The holiday stretch December 26 through New Year's Day
As released July 15, 2026, subject to change. Times converted to Eastern from each venue's local time.
About NHL opening week and holiday games
The 2026-27 NHL opening week, September 29 to October 4, and the holiday stretch from December 26 through New Year's Day, every game with puck drop in Eastern.
When does the 2026-27 NHL season open?
September 29, with opening week running to October 4.