All Star Specials Tonight

The future of All Star Specials Tonight

2011-02-24T08:13:00.000-05:00

When I first created this site, I was so excited that I did not even give a thought to what I would do with it after the event was over. I thought about turning it into a 'Canes blog, but there are so many great ones already, such as Canes Country and The Storm Report.

After much careful thinking, I have decided to put the All Star Specials Tonight domain up for sale. The 2012 All Star game is set to happen in Ottawa, so I would encourage any Ottawans who are super excited and want to keep their community informed of All Star Game happenings to contact me at allstarspecials@raleighonlinemedia.com ASAP.

If you enjoyed following All Star Specials Tonight, I encourage you to check out my other blog, Raleigh Specials Tonight. I promise to keep you updated on hockey happenings there! You can also follow RST on Twitter, @RALSpecials.

Day 3 highlights from All Star Weekend

2011-01-31T08:11:00.000-05:00

Finally, the day of the All Star Game had arrived! First, I would like to thank the Weather Gods for smiling down upon Raleigh - it was sunny and in the 60's. PERFECT tailgating weather! The RBC Center was packed with excited hockey fans. I don't think I had ever seen a line so long at The Eye! People were def snatching up the All Star gear!

The house definitely on Team Staal's side. You could here "Let's Go Staal" and Let's Go Skinner" being shouted throughout the game. Even though there was no checking and no fights, it was a close score almost the whole time, which kept the game exciting. In the end, Team Lindstrom outscored Team Staal,11-10. Despite being on the losing team, Patrick Sharp of the Chicago Blackhawks was named MVP.

The Carolina Hurricanes definitely got a boost from this weekend. Tomorrow's home game against the Boston Bruins has already sold out. Check out "Watch Hockey in Raleigh" on the right-hand side bar if you are looking for a place to watch the game.

Go Canes!

Day 2 highlights from All Star Weekend

2011-01-30T09:36:00.000-05:00

We decided to skip out on another day of the Fan Fair so we'd have time to hit up the All Star Wide Open events. We got there just in time for the Paperhand Puppet parade, which was amazing and it was great to have some entertainment while standing in line to get Jeff Skinner's autograph. After meeting the "Rookie of the Year", we headed to the Beer Garden tent - we got to try 8 beers for $10 - including many local beers! My favorite of the day was Santa's Secret from Carolina Brewing Co. After all that boozing, we had to eat, so we tried Klausie's Pizza - which was DELICIOUS! This is one food truck that I plan to follow. If you haven't gotten a chance to try it, like their Facebook page so you know where they will be next!

We headed to the RBC Center for the Red Carpet arrivals of our guests of honor. Unfortunately, my short stature worked against me - I couldn't see anything. But, it was fun nonetheless!

I loved how light-hearted and fun the Skills Competition was. I was cheering for players I don't normally cheer for and it was great to see the players having a good time. I was surprised to see goaltenders Tim Thomas and Cam Ward in the skating competition! The highlight was seeing Zdeno Chara beat his own record in the hardest shot competition. Team Staal beat Team Lindstron handily 33-22. Looking forward to the game tonight!

Remember, if you need a place to watch the game, Lucky B's, Character's Quarters, Havana Deluxe, and Backyard Bistro will be open and will have the big game on TV!

Day 1 Highlights of NHL All Star Weekend

2011-01-29T10:04:00.000-05:00

We started out early, heading to lunch downtown around 1:00 We stopped at Cherry Bomb Grill, which features a large list of local beers. For All Star weekend, they have Bud and Bud Light on special for $2.50.

We slowly made our way to the Raleigh Convention Center for the NHL Fan Fair, taking pics along the way and enjoying our city from a tourist's perspective. The line to get into the NHL Fan Fair was MASSIVE, but went pretty quickly once the doors opened. I LOVED the Guardian Project hall that we entered through. It was difficult to get good pictures though.

My husband is an avid hockey card collector,so we spent a chunk of time at the card and memorabilia booths. If you are going to the Fan Fair today, Taylor Hall will be signing autographs at the Panini Booth around 12:30 and at the Upper Deck booth around 2:00 PM.

After getting our pictures taken with the Stanley Cup, we tried out our hockey skills - which are sorely lacking, but it was fun anyway! I actually scored 1 goal on "Marty Brodeur"!

We were not lucky enough to be among the "chosen ones" see see the Fantasy Draft, but we stuck around and watched it on the big screens.

Today, we plan on checking out the vendors and entertainment on Fayetteville Street before heading to the RBC Center for the Red Carpet and the Skills Competition. Beer Garden, Roller Derby and rod Brind'Amour: Here we come!

Look for me at All Star Wide Open and the Fan Fair!

2011-01-28T10:20:00.000-05:00

I'll be at All Star Wide Open and the NHL Fan Fair today! If you see me, come say hi. How will you know it's me? Well, I'm almost positive that I will be the only one in a Canes Jersey dress:

Want one? Check out Little Black Jersey Co.

All Star Specials this weekend!

2011-01-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone is getting ready for the big All Star weekend! I am so excited, I've been having a hard time concentrating on anything else!

Here are some All Star specials going on this weekend:

101 Lounge will be open from 6 PM- 2 AM Friday, Saturday and Sunday! Enjoy $6 Caniacs (Special Rum Drink),$5 All-Star Shooters, $4 Draft Beers and $2 Bud Lights.

Enjoy one of the best burgers in the U.S. with a special All Star menu at Raleigh Times. Several Canadian brews will be on special.

White Collar Crime will have $2 Labatt pints ALL weekend!

Solas hosting 3 All Star Parties

2011-01-27T19:48:00.000-05:00

It's not just sports bars that are getting in on the All Star Action! Solas, a high end night club, is hosting 3 parties during All Star Weekend. Rumor has it that this is where the NHL elite will be hanging out, so if you want to rub elbows with the guests of honor, this is the place to be.

January 28th - Enjoy 3 floors of high energy music while sipping on Blackberry Spritzes. Raffle prizes will be awarded throughout the night!

January 29th - Reservations are needed for this high-energy party in the middle of the All Star Weekend.

January 30th - NHL After Party. Reservations are needed for this full force par-tay too, get on the horn! Call 919-755-0755.

Canes Corner with Jeff Skinner - Note earlier start time

2011-01-27T07:00:00.005-05:00

Can't wait until tomorrow to get your ultimate hockey weekend on? Come to Jeff Skinner's Canes Corner tonight at The Backyard Bistro! 99.9 The Fan will broadcast the event live and you can be there for it. 30 lucky winners will get to meet the Rookie of the Year himself and get his autograph! Canes Corner is always a popular event and this one starts earlier than usual - we recommend getting there between 4 PM and 5 PM. The event starts at 6 PM. While you are there, enjoy $1.50 PBR Drafts, $2 Mystery Bottles, $3 House Wines and $4 Well Drinks.

10% Off + Free Shipping when Discover Card is used, Enter Code ITPAYS at Shop.NHL.com. - Ends 02.06.11

Win All Star tickets from Havana Deluxe

2011-01-25T20:27:00.000-05:00

If you are visiting Raleigh, you might notice the lack of places to smoke, which is ironic, with the whole "Tobacco Road" thing. Well, if you need to light up, head to Havana Deluxe - one of Raleigh's only cigar bars. Head over before Thursday and pick up a raffle ticket to win tickets to the All Star Game. Tickets are $10 and proceeds go to the Kids and Community Foundation.

If you need a smokey bar in which to watch the big game, they will be open!

Deep South Hosting All Star parties ALL weekend

2011-01-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

If you need a break from hockey action, step into Deep South. They will be featuring musical acts all weekend:

Thursday - Now You See Them/Nick Driver (Pop/Indie/Folk)
Friday - Cafe Mars (Party Dance)
Saturday - Irvine (Rock Covers)
Sunday - Acoustic Hangover Showcase

While you are there, try Raleigh's signature cocktail, The Cherry Bounce for $5! If cherries aren't your thing, they will also have $3.25 Molson Canadian, $3.25 Labatts Blue Bottles, $3 Five For Fighting Shots and $2.25 Bud Lights.

Raleigh prepares for All Star Week

2011-01-23T10:15:00.000-05:00

Last night, I took a stroll down Fayetteville Street as the city prepares for NHL All Star Week. It's so awesome to see our city decked out for hockey. I vote that we leave it like this permanently. ;)

You can see more pictures here!

Watch Hockey Spotlight: Characters Quarters

2011-01-22T07:00:00.011-05:00

Enjoy the All Star Game with some real Characters! Characters Quarters is located just

out of Raleigh's city limits and they are ready to party for the NHL All Star Game! On Sunday, January 30th, watch the game at Characters Quarters while enjoying $6.00 Domestic Beer Pitchers and wing specials. Come in your favorite NHL jersey to be eligible for some awesome giveaways!

Buy More, Save More Sale - Buy 2, save 10% Buy 3, save 15% Buy 4, save 20% at Shop.NHL.com. - Ends 1.22.11

Win tickets to the NHL Fan Fair

2011-01-21T08:39:00.001-05:00

Several Raleigh institutions are giving away NHL Fan Fair tickets!

Eschelon Hospitality Restaurant Group

Drop off your business card or a form with your name, phone number and email address at one of these locations before Tuesday, Jan 26th:

Dapper Style House
317-113 W. Morgan St.
Raleigh, NC 27601

Sono
319 Fayetteville Street, Suite 101
Raleigh, NC 27601

Mura
4121 Main at North Hills, Suite 110
Raleigh, NC 27609

The Oxford
319 Fayetteville Street, Suite 105
Raleigh, NC 27601

Time Warner Cable

TWC will have a booth at the NHL Fan Fair featuring a step through screen so you can live your dream of becoming a sportscaster! They also giving away NHL Fan Fair tickets. To enter, click here.

Good luck!

Buy More, Save More Sale - Buy 2, save 10% Buy 3, save 15% Buy 4, save 20% at Shop.NHL.com. - Ends 1.22.11

Want FREE Carolina Hurricanes tickets?

2011-01-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hey locals! Head to The Hibernian in downtown Raleigh and you could see the Canes take on the Rangers tonight for free! The Hibernian is giving away 15 tickets to the first arrivals. Be there at 5 PM! While you are there, grab some dinner and snag a free ride to the game via the Canes Coach.

NHL All Star Wine? I'll drink to that!

2011-01-19T18:36:00.000-05:00

If you love wine, you will definitely want to check out Seaboard Wine while you are in town. On Saturdays, they have free wine tastings between 12 PM - 4 PM with discounts on the wines they feature.

They've recently acquired the Miner Family All Star Red, which will be available to taste this Saturday. Miner Vineyards has been making the official NHL All Star Wine for the last 5 years, with the official All Star logo and the city name. A portion of the sales of this wine goes to Hockey Fights Cancer. I'll drink to that!

Charlotte Checkers are giving away All Star tickets!

2011-01-17T07:35:00.000-05:00

The Charlotte Checkers, an AHL team located in Charlotte, NC are giving away 2 tickets to the All Star Game along with transportation and all Star T-shirts! To enter, you need to fan The Charlotte Checkers Facebook Page and then tag the Charlotte Checkers in a status update telling them why you want to go to the All Star Game. You can have to enter by 3 PM today, so get to it and good luck!

Click here for more info.

Watch Hockey Spotlight: Lucky B's

2011-01-15T08:51:00.000-05:00

Of all the bars in Raleigh, Lucky B's has the strongest ties to hockey - Bates Battaglia, a former Carolina Hurricane, is one of the owners and he was nice enough to chat with me about the bar and why he chose Raleigh as his home.

Battaglia made his NHL debut with The Carolina Hurricanes in 1997. He scored his first NHL goal with the team and though he's played with other NHL teams, sees himself as a Cane first and foremost. By the time he had been traded to the Colorado Avalanche in 2003, he had come to see what a friendly and fun city Raleigh is - he feels it is truly the total package. He hopes that all visitors coming to Raleigh for the All Star Game will leave Raleigh with the same impression of the city - and with the knowledge that Lucky B's is a great bar, of course. As for his thoughts on Raleigh being chosen to host the All Star Game, he is glad to have had the opportunity to see interest in hockey grow within our city, as well as our ultimate acceptance into the hockey family. He also noted that youth hockey has been growing as well and is proud to see that.

Lucky B's is located at the corner of Tucker and Glenwood Ave. If you haven't checked it out, I strongly recommend it. There's always a friendly, diverse crowd with many hockey fans. In addition to having awesome drink specials every night, there's pool, beer pong, skee ball, an outdoor bocce ball court and arcade games. Speaking of arcade games, Bates says is favorite video game is Ms. Pac Man and that he is "tough to beat". He indicated that he could clear the first board with his eyes closed and I intend to witness this for myself next time I am there. (BE READY, BATES)

Thinking of heading to Lucky B's to watch the All Star Game? They will be opening at 3:00 PM on January 30th. There will be free food, a raffle for a Lucky B's authentic hockey jersey, and of course, awesome drink specials. While you are watching the game, enjoy $2.00 Domestic Bottles, $2.00 Well Drinks, $3.00 Smirnoff Flavored Vodkas, $4.00 Smirnoff and Jagerbombs and $5.00 Top Shelf Drinks (includes everything but Grey Goose and Patron).

Two local Lucky B's-sponsored hockey teams will be hanging as well other hockey players. Bates says that some of his buddies from the NHL drop in occasionally, so who knows who you might run into?

And finally, a special note to the Storm Squad: If you come in uniform, Bates says you will drink on the house!

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Canes Cool Bar Tour Stops in North Raleigh

2011-01-13T07:44:00.000-05:00

Join Canes mascot Stormy and The Storm Squad tonight at the North Raleigh Carolina Ale House location! Watch the Canes (hopefully) beat down the Sabres on over 50 TV's with fellow fans while enjoying bar food and a great beer selection. There will be contests, raffles and more, so check it out! The game starts at 7:00 PM, but this is also a popular event. Try to get there an hour or so early.

His and Hurricanes Entertainment Package for Valentine's Day

2011-01-12T22:00:00.000-05:00

Normally, I wouldn't think "musical theater" when I think of hockey. (Oh, wait . . . I forgot about THIS), but if your significant other isn't into hockey, it's all about compromise. NC Theatre and The Carolina Hurricanes have come up with the His and Hurricanes package where you can buy a pair of tickets to a Carolina Hurricanes game and a pair of tickets to The Producers, Evita, Hello Dolly or Hairspray for $199!

Interested? Call 919-831-6941 Ext. 6943

All Star Specials featured on Southwest Raleigh blog

2011-01-11T09:15:00.000-05:00

All Star Specials Tonight was invited to write a guest post for the South West Raleigh Blog!

Click here to check it out.

We are experiencing some bad weather in Raleigh, NC today, but hopefully it won't affect the Canes vs. Flames game tonight. If this weather keeps up, Raleigh could host the next Winter Classic game! ;)

Canes Corner at Backyard Bistro

2011-01-10T07:50:00.000-05:00

Canes Captain and home-town hero Eric Staal will be interviewed tonight for live 99.9 The Fan radio segment called Canes Corner at The Backyard Bistro. Fans can watch the interview live and in person while sipping on $2 Miller Lites, $2 Yuenglings, $3 Sam Adams and $4 Jager Shots. You may also be lucky enough to get an autograph! The event starts at 7:00 PM, but I can tell you from experience that you will want to get there early. The place fills up fast. Try and get there around 5 or 5:30 if you want prime seats.

NHL All Star Ticket Giveaway at Amra's!

2011-01-08T13:03:00.000-05:00

Amra's has just announced a special event on Thursday, January 20th where they will be giving away 2 tickets to the All Star Skills Competition AND the NHL All Star Game! There's a $40 cover charge for this event which includes entertainment by Funk/Rock/Jazz Band Bull City Syndicate, door prizes, drink specials and food. The event starts at 7:30 PM and you must be present to win these tickets. This event is limited to 150 guests, contact Amra's TODAY to reserve your spot! Their phone number is 919-828-8488. Good luck!

Hockey Club at Lucky B's all month

2011-01-05T19:11:00.000-05:00

Celebrate your love of hockey and our neighbors to the north with a mixed bucket of Canadian beers for $18 at Lucky B's. Their Canadian beer list includes Stella, Blue Moon, Molson Canadian, Moosehead and Labatt Blue. Lucky B's has a strong ties to hockey, since it is owned by former Carolina Hurricane Bates Battaglia. It's a great place to watch a hockey game, play Skee Ball or just hang out.

Backyard Bistro Giving Away All Star Tickets!

2011-01-04T08:21:00.000-05:00

Still trying to find a way to get to the action on All Star Weekend? The Backyard Bistro will be giving away 2 tickets to the Skills Competition on Tuesday, Jan. 25 at 7 PM. The next evening, Wednesday Jan 26th, they will be giving away tickets to the main event, the All Star Game.

You must register and be present to win for both giveaways.

Click here to register for the Skills Competition giveaway.

Click here to register for the All Star Game Giveaway.

Hockey and the History of Aviation

2011-01-03T08:23:00.000-05:00

The slogan "First in Flight" appears on NC's license plates, an homage to the Wright Brothers' first successful airplane flight in Kittyhawk, NC. During a trip to the Wright Brothers Museum, I learned that if it weren't for hockey, the history of aviation may have been much different.

Wilbur Wright had planned to attend Yale University, but was struck by a hockey stick during s game in the winter of 1885-1886. He lost his front teeth and though his injuries were not severe, this incident caused him to become withdrawn and depressed. He did not attend Yale and instead stayed home caring for his parents.

He shook off his depression when his brother, Orville, dropped out of high school and designed his own printing press. Wilbur joined his bother and the 2 of them eventually capitalized on the bicycle craze by opening up a repair shop before taking on their ultimate accomplishment, the first flying machine!

You can learn more about the Wright Brothers here.