by Blain Potvin, Staff Writer, All Habs Hockey Magazine
HALIFAX, NS. – Our mission here at All Habs Hockey Magazine is “to build a world-wide network of Montreal Canadiens fans who are informed, engaged, entertained, and connected”. “It’s more than just meeting for hockey – its growing potential friendships.”
The get-together began as a mid-summer plan to simply allow local Habs fans a way to gather and discuss what was ‘the biggest trade in the last 20 years.’ Arguably the Weber – Subban deal was the largest one-for-one trade in modern Canadiens’ memory. And with that, the first-ever All Habs Hockey Party in Halifax was born.
So on July 22nd, a passionate group of engaged Habs’ fans who were rookies to All Habs special events descended upon Bubba Rays on historic Spring Garden Road in downtown Halifax. The hope was to recreate the fun-loving atmosphere of our Habs hockey parties, already legendary in cities like Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto. It’s particularly appropriate given Halifax’s enviable reputation as being a very friendly, sociable and fun-loving city. The folks that arrived were not disappointed.
Bubba Ray’s advertises itself as catering to the fan experience. Their wings have been voted as best in Halifax with several styles and over 60 sauces. Bubba Ray’s is the current holder of the title “Best Sports Bar in Atlantic Canada.” It was easy to see why. With their selection of wings and beer, the amazingly attentive and knowledgeable staff, and the many large screen TVs providing an unobstructed views, the venue was perfect for our party.
We were hosted in the section known as “The Locker Room,” and were immediately immersed in the sports atmosphere that gives Bubba Rays its reputation. The mighty contingent of Habs fans thoroughly enjoyed everything our hockey pub had to offer. There were even some ‘celebrity’ sightings.
The evening began as any evening in Halifax would, with a cold refreshing beverage, something kept in large supply at the large, well-stocked bar in the Locker Room and of course some passionate yet good-natured discussions.
The prevailing opinion of our group was that fans will miss watching the electrifying P.K. Subban in a Habs sweater. However, all were certain that the team had improved thanks to the return of Carey Price, and the additions of Andrew Shaw and Alendander Radulov. Some were concerned about how Shea Weber would fit a team known for speed, but we were unanimous that Weber will be better for the Canadiens’ power-play and defending Carey Price.
The group was joined by several Toronto Blue Jay fans who arrived for the start of the Jays – Mariners game. Despite a great ball game, even the Jays fans were drawn into hockey talk. Most were also die-hard Habs’ fans meaning that new friendships were born at the bar that evening.
Each of us appreciated the prompt and friendly service. Dan Fougere, the manager of the establishment, ensured that all in attendance were treated as VIP’s, despite his vocal and repeated love of the Maple Leafs. Even the lone Leafs’ fan who bravely joined our rowdy group (initially to show off his Leaf’s tattoo) enjoyed his evening appreciating the good-natured ribbing and the raucous laughter of our group.
The group had now more than doubled in numbers with each one committed to making our All Habs Hockey Party a regular event once the hockey season began. Despite the late hour and the rather large size of our crew, many in attendance wanted to experience a Halifax tradition: the pub crawl. And ‘the crawl’ always makes a stop at a popular waterfront bar known as The Lower Deck. Once we arrived, the libations flowed and the sea shanties were sung loudly (albeit out of tune), another Halifax tradition.
Our Maritime-based Canadiens fans proved our team motto: there is no off-season at All Habs Hockey Magazine. Despite the lack of a game, the All Habs Hockey Party was well attended and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone in attendance. We were each happy to make new friendships over hockey in the greatest port city in the world, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
We, the All Habs crew, celebrate hockey 365 days a year! Be sure to follow @AllHabs, @HabsTweetup and @HockeyPub on Twitter to stay updated on Hockey Party events. Please contact us if you are interested in hosting a get-together of hockey fans in your city!
