The Calgary Flames’ recent elimination from playoff contention isn’t just a disappointment for hockey fans it’s a blow to the city’s nightlife and hospitality industries.
Throughout the season, bars and restaurants in downtown Calgary relied heavily on the energy and presence of Flames fans. Whether it was pre-game drinks, catching the action live on TV, or celebrating or commiserating after the final buzzer, fans consistently filled seats and boosted sales.
“Especially during the last few games, every table was full,” said one server. “The lounge was packed; everyone was glued to the screens even some servers and managers (were watching).”
Another server from a different venue echoed the sentiment, noting that game nights brought a significant spike in business compared to typical evenings.
Now, with the Flames missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year, that electric atmosphere is fading.
“If the Flames had made the playoffs, we’d have had the Red Lot buzzing again. Downtown would’ve been alive,” said one fan. “Now that they’re out, things will quiet down.”
Despite the disappointment, some fans are choosing to reflect positively on the season.
“We were expected to be one of the bottom five teams this year,” said another supporter. “To be in the wildcard race right until Game 81 was pretty incredible.”
Still, for many in Calgary’s service industry, the absence of playoff hockey means they’ll have to get creative to keep patrons coming through the doors.
As Flames fans look ahead with hope, restaurants and bar owners are left to adapt—and find new ways to keep Calgary’s downtown nightlife vibrant.
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