Lightning enhances the fan experience with upgrades at Amalie Arena

Bolts fans have every reason to be excited about the upcoming 2024-2025 season, and it’s not just the team’s talent that has everyone excited.

The Tampa Bay Lightning are introducing a number of exciting improvements to Amalie Arena designed to enhance the home game experience for fans. These changes are designed to make the Lightning’s presence both visible and audible – inside the arena and throughout the surrounding area! With one of the most talented rosters in the league, it’s only fitting that their home venue reflects the same elite level of excellence.

Tribute to the Bolt for Life logo

For the first time in franchise history, the names of over 6,000 season ticket holders, partners and suite holders will be frozen directly into their logo at center ice. This new initiative, called “Bolt for Life,” pays tribute to the team’s most loyal supporters and underscores how important they are to the franchise’s continued success. What better way to symbolize their central role in the organization than by literally putting their names at the center of the game?

This initiative is not only a unique tribute, but also a tangible way for fans to feel even more connected to the team. It is the first time an NHL team has taken such an innovative approach to honoring its core supporters. Another great touch was calling it “Bolt” instead of “Bolts,” which symbolizes an overwhelming unity among fans and is represented by the single lightning bolt at center ice. Many, including myself, might have called it “Bolts for life,” which technically makes more sense since it refers to more than one person.

Largest digital screen in Florida with 3D capabilities

Outside the arena, fans may have noticed that major changes are taking place. The team is installing a $6.5 million digital video wall, the largest of its kind in Florida, with state-of-the-art LED lights and 3D capabilities. Whether you’re coming to a game or just stopping by, this giant screen will show highlights, scores and other exciting content, making the Lightning’s presence felt long before fans even enter the building.

Improvements in light and sound

The improvements will continue as fans approach the plaza at Amalie Arena, where an enhanced pregame experience will be created. Visitors will be greeted by a giant, gold Bolts logo – perfect for Instagram-worthy photos – as well as an elevated DJ booth with dynamic lighting to boost the energy before and after games. Additionally, large, 16-foot-tall kiosks will be installed along Channelside Drive and Water Street, so even if you’re not inside, you can still feel the excitement when the Bolts score a goal as the kiosks will light up and make noise.

Interior and dining room upgrades

Fans will be treated to a completely redesigned experience at Amalie Arena. One of the most notable changes is the conversion of the Firestick Grill into a $2.5 million food hall. Gone is the sit-down restaurant; in its place will be a dynamic space with a variety of culinary experiences. From bacon lovers to sushi fans, there will be something for everyone. Additionally, the Cigar City seating area will be completely updated and the new Corona Bolts Bay will be created – an outdoor beach bar-style area that is sure to become a permanent fixture at the arena.

Jersey “Patch with a Purpose” program

In another NHL first, the Lightning introduced the Patch with a Purpose program, partnering with the Tampa Bay YMCA and Advent Health for the patches on their home and away jerseys. These two organizations are deeply committed to community health and wellness, and over the course of the program, the Lightning will donate $1 million to local initiatives.

Fans who would like to view the full press conference with these announcements and see Victor Hedman in the captain’s jersey for the first time, click here.

As the Tampa Bay Lightning prepare for the upcoming season, their fans can look forward to much more than just a great team at their next Lightning game. From the largest 3D digital display in Florida to the names etched into the ice, the Bolts are creating an atmosphere that makes every fan feel like a part of the team. With these improvements, game days at Amalie Arena will be more electrifying, memorable and exciting than ever before!