Tampa Bay Lightning Playoff Tickets, Parties, and Schedule Announced

The Lightning open the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at home against the Montreal Canadiens.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:51am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant neon colors and rapid, energetic brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movement and intensity of a professional ice hockey game, with players' forms dissolving into unrecognizable shapes and splatters.The Tampa Bay Lightning's playoff push ignites the community's passion for hockey and the team's quest to bring the Stanley Cup back home.Today in Tampa

The Tampa Bay Lightning will begin their 2026 Stanley Cup Playoff run at home against the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday, April 19. Fans can purchase tickets exclusively online, and the team is hosting a playoff pep rally at Sparkman Wharf today as well as official watch parties and plaza parties throughout the postseason.

Why it matters

The Lightning are one of the top contenders for the Stanley Cup this year, and their playoff run is highly anticipated by the Tampa Bay community. The team's success drives tourism, economic activity, and community pride in the region.

The details

The Lightning's first-round playoff series against the Canadiens will feature four games, with the first two at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa and the next two at the Bell Centre in Montreal. If necessary, Games 5, 6, and 7 will be played back in Tampa and Montreal. Fans without tickets to home games can still participate in the Lightning Plaza Parties outside the arena, which will feature live music, giveaways, and more for $5.

  • The Lightning's first-round playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens begins on Sunday, April 19 at 5:45 p.m.
  • Game 2 against the Canadiens will be played on Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m.
  • Game 3 in Montreal is scheduled for Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m.
  • Game 4 in Montreal is set for Sunday, April 26 at 7 p.m.
  • If necessary, Games 5, 6, and 7 will be played on April 29, May 1, and May 3 with times TBD.

The players

Tampa Bay Lightning

A professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida and a member of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Montreal Canadiens

A professional ice hockey team based in Montreal, Quebec and a member of the NHL.

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What’s next

Fans can purchase tickets for Lightning playoff home games exclusively online at www.Ticketmaster.com. The team will also announce locations and details for official Lightning Watch Parties throughout the postseason on their social media channels and Lightning Insider newsletter.

The takeaway

The Tampa Bay Lightning's playoff run is a highly anticipated event in the Tampa Bay community, driving tourism, economic activity, and community pride. Fans have multiple options to engage with the team's postseason, including purchasing tickets, attending plaza parties, and watching official watch parties.