Carolina Hurricanes watch party is moving to a bigger venue in downtown Raleigh
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- Raleigh is hosting a free Game 5 watch party at Red Hat Amphitheater.
- Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the June 11 watch party.
- Only small clear bags or a small clutch are allowed; sealed or empty water bottles OK.
The official Carolina Hurricanes Stanley Cup Final watch party, previously held at Moore Square in downtown Raleigh, is moving to a larger venue for Game 5.
The city of Raleigh will open the Red Hat Amphitheater, 500 S. McDowell St., for a free watch party of the Stanley Cup Final. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the puck drop is at 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 11.
The Vegas Golden Knights lead the Carolina Hurricanes, 2 games to 1, in the best-of-seven series headed into Game 4 on Tuesday, June 9.
“Since each of these games have been ‘nail-biters,’ I hope people feel a sense of comfort, camaraderie and shared excitement by being with other fans,” said Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell.
The watch parties have grown in popularity requiring more space, said Liam Aubrey, marketing manager for the Raleigh Convention Center. Moore Square is also already scheduled to host the Soccer Square Fan Fest, a four-day World Cup watch party.
A free watch party will also be held outside the Lenovo Center’s South Plaza during all home games.
What can you take?
The event is rain or shine, and people are asked to not bring chairs. There will be seating in sections 1 through 7, or people can bring a small blanket to sit on the lawn.
The amphitheater’s clear bag policy is in effect, meaning only small clear bags or a small clutch will be allowed.
Outside food and beverages are not allowed, except for an empty reusable water bottle or a sealed water bottle. Canes-themed food and drinks will be available for purchase at bars and food trucks, including Hollywood Taco Shop and Two Roosters.
People are encouraged to wear their Canes gear.
Expect traffic in the area
Just be aware the watch party coincides with several high school graduations.
Thursday is the start of multiple days of high school graduations at the Raleigh Convention Center, including graduations at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday.
Wake County Public School System urged students and parents to allow significant time for traffic and parking, The News & Observer reported.
“The Complex is experienced with several events happening across all our venues, we’ve had concerts during graduation before, and the city and the venues will work together closely to ensure the best experience we can provide for everyone,” Aubrey said. “There are several parking options near the venues, and attendees can visit RaleighConvention.com or RedHatAmphitheater.com to find their best parking option and plan their route accordingly.”
How to watch the Stanley Cup on TV
Games will be shown live on ABC and online at ABC.com, though you will need to share your TV provider and login. You can also stream on ESPN+.
Game 4 is Tuesday, June 9 while Game 5 is Thursday, June 11. Games 6-7, if necessary, are Sunday, June 14 and Wednesday, June 17.
All games are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. EST.
This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 12:14 PM.
