Photo by Alexandar Jonesi
There’s something special in the D.C. air this winter, and it’s not just the weather. The feeling of excitement and anticipation has been buzzing around the nation’s capital for one of the most historic sporting years in ice hockey. The Washington Capitals are celebrating the organization’s 50-year anniversary this season, while aiming to capture the elusive Stanley Cup, which they last won in 2018.
Alex Ovechkin is the definition of the Washington Capitals, a player whose impact on the team goes far beyond his historic goal-scoring numbers. The heart and soul of D.C., Ovechkin has been the face of the franchise since he was drafted in 2004. The Russian native brought global attention to the Capitals, transforming them from a struggling team into a perennial playoff contender. Individually, Ovechkin is continually chasing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal record of 894. Starting off the 2024–25 season, Ovechkin was only 42 goals away, but is now withing reaching distance, with only 27 goals needed to eclipse Gretzky (as of 12/2). While he has already solidified his legacy in the NHL, breaking the record in his 20th personal season and Capitals’ 50th would be the perfect storyline.
With an ever-consistent focus on the fans, the Capitals have a strong slate of events, promotions, and giveaways for the special season on home ice at Capital One Arena. “This upcoming season presents our organization a unique opportunity to celebrate our history and the great contributions our alumni have made to the Capitals franchise,” says Capitals Chairman Dick Patrick. “We are excited to welcome them back and recognize their achievements with our extraordinary fanbase.” The franchise’s “50 Fest” opened the season festivities on October 10th, with fans having quite the experience. Welcoming over 60 Capitals alumni, participants were able to meet ‘n greet some of the organization’s legends, in addition to receiving a commemorative 50th Anniversary Capitals t-shirt. Other promotional gameday giveaways this season include: Capitals Marvel Comic Book, Capitol Dome Pennant, Ovechkin & Backstrom duo Bobblehead, 50th Anniversary Photo Book, and more.
Photo courtesy of Washington Capitals
If you’re at a home game, stop by Section 103 in the arena to view a special display of Caps memorabilia and game worn equipment. From the iconic 2015 Winter Classic skates worn by Ovechkin to gloves and pads used by Capitals players over the many years, this is an exhibition the history buffs won’t want to miss. Celebrating the five different decades, the Capitals also are offering “Era Nights.” Each night on the schedule will see alumni from the celebrated era in attendance for meet ’n greets and panel discussions. Attendance of the era nights includes pregame ceremonies, an area of the arena themed to the specific decade, and a limited edition 50th giveaway item, along with fun food and beverage items.
Looking to scope out the Caps’ future talent? The Hershey Bears are the team’s AHL affiliate, playing all their home games at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The Hershey Bears regular season runs until April 2025, with playoffs commencing the following month. The team has won the coveted Calder Cup two seasons in a row. Tickets can be bought online and normally range between $15 and $110. Closer to home at Piney Orchard Arena in Odenton, the Maryland Black Bears, a tier II minor league team, skate on local ice. This group of Bears tend to be on the younger side, playing in more of a developmental league rather than professional. Tickets can be bought online and range between $12 and $20. The season also follows a similar timeline to the pros, wrapping up in April 2025 ahead of the playoffs.
Whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan or are a newcomer to the sport, there’s no better time than this season to “Rock the Red” and attend a Caps game. To view the full 2024–25 schedule and to purchase tickets, head to the official Washington Capitals 50th anniversary website: nhl.com/capitals/history/50th-anniversary.
