Being a Nashville hockey fan is more than just an interest; it's a lifestyle. Whether it's your rookie season or your 24th year as a fan, you can always discover new ways to celebrate being a fan.
Here are seven things you need to know about to be a true Predators fan.
The History of Bridgestone Arena
Bridgestone Arena is a world-class sports and entertainment facility located in the heart of Downtown Nashville. Owned and operated by the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, it can accommodate more than 17,000 Predators fans per match.
When hockey's not in season, the arena hosts household musicians and performers, basketball games, and other massive events.
Gnash
Gnash is the team's beloved mascot, a blue saber-tooth tiger. You can find him hyping the crowd in his natural habitat (Bridgestone Arena) with his jaw-dropping stunts, hilarious antics, and infectious love for the game.
Smashville
Shout it from the hilltops; Bridgestone Arena is the loudest stadium in the NHL. Fans who want to be in the heart of the action should look for tickets in Section 303. Affectionately known as "The Cellblock," this section is the loudest place to sit in the loudest arena. Bridgestone's noise levels routinely exceed 120 decibels, earning it the nickname "Smashville."
The Legend of the Catfish
Predators fans watching for the first time in 2017 might've been surprised to see Titans offensive lineman Taylor Lewan passing a giant catfish to country singer Keith Urban, who proudly hoisted it above his head. Confused? Let's back up a little.
In the early 1950s, Detroit Red Wings fans created hurled nearly 40 octopuses on the ice, with the idea that the creatures' eight legs represented the eight wins required to win the Stanley Cup, and The Legend of the Octopus was born. Predators fans will occasionally pay homage to this frozen lore by throwing catfish on the ice, although we don't encourage anyone to smuggle catfish into the stadium for numerous reasons.
Fang Fingers
Anyone who's been to a Predators game knows how electric the stadium gets when the Predators are on a power play. Fans will raise their Fang Fingers for every power play, a hand symbol reminiscent of "bunny ears." Fang Fingers are usually paired with the signature screeching soundtrack from "Psycho." How would you like to be an opposing goaltender with all that going on?
The Cellblock
The Cellblock is the nickname for Section 303, which proudly claims to be the loudest section in the loudest stadium in the NHL. If you buy tickets in The Cellblock, keep an eye out for Mark Hollingsworth, a super-fan who's helped establish the cheering section. Mark crafted a series of tongue-in-cheek chants with a handful of friends and earned himself the title Warden of the Cellblock.
Where to Watch Away Games in Nashville
Sure, we all wish every game was at home. But the noise can't stop when the Preds hit the road; true fans always know the best bar, restaurant, and patio for Predators watch parties. A few NHL-approved favorites include 3 Crow Bar, Assembly Food Hall, and Amerigo Italian Restaurant.
