Winnipeg Jets supporters rejoice as Fan Fest returns

Fans gathered at the Bell MTS Iceplex on Saturday to join the Winnipeg Jets as they officially kicked off hockey season with the return of the Winnipeg Jets Fan Fest.

Returning for the first time since 2019, after a hiatus due to the pandemic, Fan Fest offered hockey lovers a sneak peek at top players with the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose as they prepare for the new season.

"It's building excitement but it's also bringing our fans together at the same time to hype up our season," said Kory Harnum, manager of community relations with the Winnipeg Jets.

"It's an opportunity to get everyone into one rink," said Harnum.

Fans were able to watch on-ice training camp sessions from the rinkside, and see interviews with their favourite players at the event.

Fan Fest also added a new experience to the event this year called NHL Street, bringing youngsters a chance to participate in a full street hockey setup.

"There's a little bit of everything for everyone," Harnum said. "It's been a great day."

Fan Fest is also an opportunity to see new players on the ice for the first time after the changes made during the off-season, Harnum said.

Tickets to the event were free, and 3,000 to 4,000 were booked before Saturday, said Harnum.

Christina Litz, chief brand and commercial officer for Jets owner True North Sports and Entertainment, says free tickets to the event remove barriers and allow all fans to enjoy the event.

"I think we're all struggling right now with rising costs," she told Radio-Canada in a Saturday interview.

"The privilege of coming to a Jets game is hard to afford, so we're trying to make it easier where we can."

The Jets also unveiled their new Winnipeg Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre retail jersey at the event.