Jets to host Oilers in 2016 Heritage Classic

At the inaugural Heritage Classic Montreal Canadiens goaltender Jose Theodore wore a toque during the game, creating an iconic image.

Outdoor hockey is coming to Winnipeg.

The NHL announced Sunday that the Winnipeg Jets will take on the Edmonton Oilers in the Heritage Classic Oct. 23 at Investors Group Field, home of the Canadian Football League’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers. It will be the first Heritage Classic since the Vancouver Canucks hosted the Ottawa Senators at BC Place in 2014.

As part of the festivities, an alumni game featuring legendary players from the Jets and Oilers will take place on Oct. 22.

Investors Group Field has already hosted the 2015 Grey Cup and several group matches of the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup since being opened in 2013. It has a capacity of 33,500 to 40,000 depending on the event.

The Jets will be the 21st NHL team to participate in an outdoor game and the last Canadian team.

The NHL has yet to announce where the 2017 Winter Classic will be held, though reports suggest St. Louis has been strongly considered.

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