Future Wings. Future Jackets. One Great Lakes Stage.

Daily Dose | 07/31/2026 10:00 am

The Toledo Walleye are proud to announce the Great Lakes Showcase, a special two-game American Hockey League exhibition weekend coming to the Huntington Center in downtown Toledo on Saturday, September 26, 2026, and Sunday, September 27, 2026.

The Great Lakes Showcase will feature the Grand Rapids Griffins, primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings, taking on the Cleveland Monsters, primary affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets, in a unique weekend showcase at the Huntington Center.

Game Schedule

Saturday, September 26 at 1 p.m.
Sunday, September 27 at 5 p.m.

The two-game series will give hockey fans a rare opportunity to watch tomorrow's NHL stars compete today. As the top development league for the NHL, the American Hockey League serves as the final step for many players on their journey to hockey's biggest stage.

"This is more than a hockey series. It's a celebration of the Great Lakes hockey tradition and a tremendous opportunity for Toledo sports fans," said the Toledo Walleye. "The Grand Rapids Griffins and Cleveland Monsters, representing two of hockey's most passionate NHL organizations, have chosen Toledo as the home for this special showcase. We are honored to welcome these teams, their fans, and some of the most talented young players in the game to the Glass City."

The Great Lakes Showcase represents a unique moment for the region. With connections to the Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets organizations, the event will bring together hockey fans from across Ohio and Michigan while reinforcing Toledo's reputation as one of the premier hockey communities in North America.

For long-time hockey fans, the showcase offers an opportunity to see elite prospects before they reach the NHL. For families, casual fans, and first-time attendees, it provides a chance to experience high-level hockey in an exciting and welcoming atmosphere. Building memorable experiences and creating community connections are central to the event's vision.

General Public On-Sale

Thursday, August 6 at 10 a.m.

Tickets may be purchased HERE.

Exclusive presale for Walleye Ticket Plan Members will begin on Monday, August 3.

Fans are encouraged to secure tickets early, as demand is expected to be strong for this one-of-a-kind hockey weekend.

Group outings, hospitality experiences, and sponsorship packages are expected to sell quickly.

For group sales information, call (419) 725-9255.
For sponsorship opportunities, call (419) 725-4379

The Great Lakes Showcase is not simply about two hockey games. It is a regional event that highlights Toledo's role as a destination for sports, entertainment, and community pride. Bringing together organizations affiliated with the Red Wings and Blue Jackets on Toledo ice reinforces the city's growing reputation as a place where future stars and passionate fans come together. The event aligns with the belief that sports create belonging, strengthen communities, and generate experiences that fans remember long after the final buzzer.