The Calgary Flames Game Day Guide

Whether you live in Calgary, or you’re in town for a few days, taking in a Flames game is a key experience for every sports fan. From experiencing the iconic Scotiabank Saddledome, to cheering side-by-side with the diehard fans that make up the “C of Red”, there’s bound to be something that keeps you coming back for more.

Here’s everything you need to know before buying your tickets and heading to a game.

There are plenty of ways to buy tickets for a Calgary Flames game that include a wide range of seating options depending on the kind of experience you’re looking for.

Where to buy tickets

The most reliable place to start is the official ticket marketplace through Ticketmaster. Fans also frequently use secondary marketplaces like StubHub, SeatGeek, or Gametime to look for deals, especially closer to, and on, game day.

Where to sit

• Lower bowl - Seats in the lower bowl put you closest to the ice and the speed of the game. This is where you’ll really appreciate how fast and physical NHL hockey is. Be prepared as these seats are typically the most expensive but offer the most immersive experience.

• Second level / middle bowl - Many seasoned fans actually prefer sitting in the second level. From this height you can see the entire ice surface clearly, making it easier to follow plays developing and appreciate the strategy of the game. It’s a great balance between price and view.

• Press level - The press level, often called the nosebleeds, is the most budget-friendly option. While you’re farther from the ice, the vantage point still gives you a full view of the rink and the energy of the crowd. For many fans, especially first-timers, it’s a great way to experience the atmosphere of a Flames game without the big price tag. Just be warned, the climb up to the Press Level can be a long one, so save your snack and drink buying until you get up there to avoid any mishaps on the stairs!

Take a look at the full seating map to help you decide the best section for you.

Where the Flames shoot twice

Like most NHL arenas, the Flames attack toward the same goal for the first and third periods. That means if you want the best chance to see goals scored by Calgary up close, look for seats in the sections behind or near the net where the Flames shoot twice (Sections 110-119, 213-225, and PL6-PL13).

The Scotiabank Saddledome is about as central as you can get in Calgary, making it easy to get to from any quadrant of the city.

Parking at the arena

There are several options for getting to the ‘Dome, with the main, but most expensive, option being parking right outside the building . Depending on where you park, whether that’s in the parkade located immediately to the northeast of the Saddledome, or in one of the surrounding lots, expect to pay between $15-$20 for parking.

There are also several private and public lots located north of the Saddledome if you’re looking to save a few dollars.

Parking and walking

Another cost-effective choice is parking a few blocks away from the Saddledome and getting some steps in!

Parking on many streets on the east end of Downtown becomes free after 6PM from Monday-Saturday, and free all day on Sundays. Scout out some gaps on your way in and save your money for that Pocket Dawg once you get inside. Your future self will thank you!

CTrain

Calgary Transit also offers an affordable and convenient way to get to the game. The CTrain stops at Victoria Park/Stampede Station on the north end of Stampede Park, just a short walk from the ‘Dome. If you’re staying downtown or nearby, it’s an easy option that costs just $4.00 for a one-way adult fare.

Just hop off the CTrain, walk east past the BMO Centre, and you’re there.

When you attend a Calgary Flames game, one thing becomes clear very quickly: the city shows up in red. Wearing red to the game is an easy way to integrate yourself into the experience immediately.

The “C of Red”

Calgary Flames fans are called the “C of Red” for a reason. The phrase refers to the sea of red jerseys worn by Flames fans inside the Saddledome, creating one of the most visually striking atmospheres in hockey. The tradition really took off during the team’s unforgettable run to Game 7 of the 2004 Stanley Cup Finals, when fans were encouraged to wear red to every playoff game. What started as a simple rallying cry quickly became a defining part of Calgary’s hockey identity.

Jerseys

The CGY Team Store located on the concourse at the Saddledome is a great first stop shop for any first-time fan heading to a game. There are several options to get yourself kitted up in Flames gear, and there are always sales racks that hold older gear should you be looking to save some money on your first jersey.

Opposing fans are always welcome at Calgary Flames games (unless you’re an Oilers fan) but keep in mind no opposing gear will be sold within the walls of the Saddledome.  And unless you want to become the Lost Fan of the Game, maybe keep your jersey from a team that’s not playing at home for this one.

17th Ave has been the unofficial gathering place for Flames fans ever since the 2004 playoffs, when it was dubbed The Red Mile. After every Flames victory, thousands of supporters flooded the street to celebrate together, waving flags, honking horns, and turning the avenue into a massive outdoor party.

Pre-game

Heading out for some dinner and a pre-game drink is an easy way to start off the night on the right foot.

Calgary has tons of options just west of the Saddledome along 17th Avenue where you can find dozens of restaurants and bars that will be filled with Flames fans both before and during a Flames game.

Another great option is heading right to the ‘Dome and taking advantage of Happy Hour, which begins when the doors open 90 minutes before puck drop until 30 minutes before the game starts.

If you’re a big hockey fan, you’ll want to be in your seat 31 minutes before puck drop to catch warmups, which offer a great chance to watch the players up close.

Post-game

Just because the final horn has gone off doesn’t have to mean the end to your night. A short walk from the arena brings you to Cowboys Casino, a popular late-night stop where many fans head for post-game drinks or to try their luck at the casino.

From there, it’s only a few minutes to 17th Avenue SW, which is the perfect place to grab a late dinner, celebrate a Flames win, or simply soak in the post-game buzz with fellow fans.

There is no shortage of choices when it comes to grabbing a bite to eat at the Saddledome.

Whether you’re looking for a solid sit-down meal, a restaurant style burger while watching the game, or just a classic Pocket Dawg, there’s something for every foodie.

Concourse

You’ll find your standard concourse options like nachos, pizza, and popcorn. But if you’re craving something a little different, there are tacos, rotisserie chicken, and pocket dawgs along with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-friendly options.

One thing is for sure. Make sure to save room for the classic Saddledome Cinnamalt Swirl ice cream... trust us. You won’t regret it.

Sit-down restaurants

If you’re looking to have your pre-game meal at the Saddledome, there are a few options for you to choose from.

The Saddleroom Grill  open 2 hours prior to puck drop and offers a chef’s tasting menu before all Saddledome events.

The Alumni Lounge , located on the Terrace Level of the Saddledome, is another great option for a quick bite before the game. Menu options include: wings, smoked meat sandwiches, and donairs.

A Flames game is a full arena experience built around noise, tradition, and a little bit of fire. The moment the Flames score, the building erupts with one of the most recognizable celebrations in the NHL - actual flames shooting out above the ice.

Along with the flames, the arena sound system cranks up the team’s goal celebration song, TNT by AC/DC. It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s one of those moments that makes live hockey in Calgary unforgettable.

If the Flames secure a victory, the celebration doesn’t stop when the final horn sounds. The arena plays Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash, a perfect nod to the team’s name and the fiery energy of the fanbase.

Meet Harvey the Hound

No visit to a Calgary Flames game is complete without spotting the team’s beloved mascot, Harvey the Hound . Introduced in 1983, Harvey holds the distinction of being the first mascot in NHL history, setting the standard for the playful, high-energy characters fans see around the league today.

Harvey is hard to miss inside the Saddledome. The oversized, tongue-out hound is constantly roaming the concourse and stands, entertaining fans with pranks, dance moves, and spontaneous interactions. His antics always get big laughs from fans, whether it be banging on the glass, sitting on an opposing fans' lap, or hitting his drum from the edge of the second bowl.

The Saddledome has been a staple of the Calgary skyline for decades, but it’s almost time to say goodbye.

Beginning in the 2027/28 NHL season, the Flames will be moving just a few blocks north over to their beautiful new home, Scotia Place .

This is your chance to go see a Flames game before the team moves out of the iconic Saddledome for good!