There’s always something special about walking into an NHL arena and knowing you’re going home with more than just memories of the game.
Giveaway nights have become a big part of the league’s fan experience. While bobbleheads remain the undisputed king of promotional items, teams have gotten increasingly creative in recent years. Blankets, kitchenware, cups and other collectibles now compete for space on fans’ shelves.
The 2026-27 NHL season is no different. From now through to the end of the regular season, there are plenty of promotional nights worth circling on the calendar. Some celebrate the NHL’s biggest stars, while others offer the kind of bizarre memorabilia that makes you wonder who came up with the idea.
If you’re a collector — or just a fan who likes getting something extra with your ticket — here are seven giveaway dates worth getting.
Lightning Trading Cards – October 29, 2026
Giving away trading cards at a hockey game should be a no-brainer. On October 29, the Lightning will do just that, giving the first 10,000 fans a free Victor Hedman collectible card as part of its game against the Winnipeg Jets. The card is part of a series that will take place throughout the season and feature other Lightning players, including goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy.
Ilya Sorokin Bobblehead – November 27, 2026
The second stop on our giveaway calendar takes us to Long Island, where the New York Islanders host the Winnipeg Jets on November 27. The big attraction is the Ilya Sorokin bobblehead. There’s a significant bonus for Islanders fans: The giveaway is scheduled for all fans in attendance. That’s a big deal since many promotional giveaways are often in limited supply.
Spencer Knight bobblehead – November 29, 2026
Two days later, the bobblehead giveaway chase moves to Chicago. The Blackhawks host the Minnesota Wild on Nov. 29, where the first 8,000 fans will get a Spencer Knight bobblehead. The giveaway is part of Chicago’s new player-bobblehead series. The Blackhawks are introducing first-ever team bobbleheads for several players during this season, making this a particularly interesting promotion for collectors who want to build the complete series.
Alex Ovechkin Bobblehead – January 12, 2027
After the holiday break, one of the biggest names in hockey gets his turn. The Washington Capitals host the Vegas Golden Knights on Jan. 12, with an Alex Ovechkin bobblehead among the night’s promotional items. Ovechkin memorabilia is already a major part of the collecting world. A team-issued bobblehead celebrating the league’s all-time leading scorer should attract plenty of attention (not to mention some resale value).
Connor Bedard Bobblehead – February 20, 2027
If you’re looking for one of the biggest names on this list, look no further than Chicago. The Blackhawks host Minnesota on February 20 and the first 8,000 fans will receive a Connor Bedard bobblehead doll. Bedard, recently named team captain and coming off a shoulder injury, is one of the most recognizable young players in the game, making his inclusion in Chicago’s player bobblehead series particularly notable. You may not be able to afford Bedard’s Young Guns card, but this bobblehead is very attainable.
Gritty Blanket – February 24, 2027
Not every great giveaway has to be a bobblehead. The Philadelphia Flyers host Buffalo on February 24, with the first 10,000 fans receiving a Gritty blanket. Yes, Gritty gets his own blanket – and now you can own it, too. The Flyers’ mascot has become one of the most recognizable in pro sports. A blanket featuring the crazed-looking orange mascot is considerably more practical than many promotional items and could become one of those giveaways that fans actually use. The Flyers have yet to put out what the blanket looks like. In the meantime, you can get one on Amazon for $49.99.
NJ Devil Night Light – March 5, 2027
Here’s a bright idea for a promo item. On March 5, the New Jersey Devils host the Vegas Golden Knights at the Prudential Center for their “Mascot Madness” promotional night. As part of the promotion, the first 9,000 fans will receive a limited-edition NJ Devil night light.
Mark down these dates, buy your tickets, arrive early when necessary and make some room on your shelves. The new NHL season will bring with it plenty of new souvenirs to go with the hockey.
Clemente Lisi is a lifelong Rangers fan who first started collecting cards in 1986. He collects both vintage and modern with a focus on rookie cards. Follow him on X/Twitter @ClementeLisi and check out his new book, The World Cup: A History of the Planet’s Biggest Sporting Event, 2026 Edition.
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