WINNIPEG

NHL set to hold festival in Winnipeg for kickoff of hockey season

ctvwinnipeg.ca Published Thursday, September 22, 2011 5:39PM CST

A packed MTS Centre was treated to a 6-1 Winnipeg Jets victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets in their first pre-season NHL action in Winnipeg on Tuesday, September 20, 2011. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

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The NHL announced Thursday it will hold a festival in Winnipeg to mark the kickoff of the 2011-2012 hockey season.

On Oct. 6, The Forks will feature live musical performances, hockey attractions and video boards broadcasting the opening night game from Toronto between the Maple Leafs and Canadiens.

The lineup of Jets players will also be introduced to fans.

"We are honoured the National Hockey League has chosen Winnipeg and the Jets to host the season-opening event for the NHL year," said Mark Chipman, chairman of True North Sports & Entertainment and the Winnipeg Jets.

A lineup of musical artists that will perform at the event is slated to be announced next week.

The Forks will also host another event before the Jets' own official season-opening game in Winnipeg on Oct. 9. The Winnipeg Convention Centre, meanwhile, will host a post-game social that night as well.