Stanley Cup Back In Tampa Bay; Tampa Celebrates With Boat Parade

TAMPA, FL — While Tampa Bay fans couldn't celebrate the Tampa Bay Lightning's hockey championship in person Monday night, they're more than making up for it this week as the Bolts bring the Stanley Cup home to Tampa Bay for the second time in the franchise's history.

A boat parade along Hillsborough River will take place Wednesday at 5 p.m. Fans can line up along the Riverwalk in downtown Tampa and are encouraged to wear face coverings and practice social distancing as they watch the Lightning and the Stanley Cup make their way via boat down the river

Afterward, there will be a socially distant rally at 7:30 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium. It's free, but tickets are required and will be available through Ticketmaster at 1 p.m. Tuesday.

For the second time in its 28-year franchise history, the Tampa Bay Lightning took home the Stanley Cup Monday night after defeating the Dallas Stars 2-o., eliminating the Stars after six playoff games.

The Bolts first brought home in the Stanley Cup in 2004.

Brayden Point scored his 14th goal in the NHL playoffs to lead the Lightning to Monday's win against the Dallas Stars. Lightning Swedish defenseman Victor Hedman, who scored 10 goals during the playoffs, was named the MVP and awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy.

“That last period was probably the longest period of my life," Hedman said. "I’m at a loss for words. You obviously wish your family and fans could be here, but we felt the support from back home.”

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor was among the first to congratulate the team.

"The Stanley Cup is once again coming home to Tampa. We could not be more proud of the Tampa Bay Lightning for embodying the resilient, fighting spirit of the Tampa Bay community and for bringing the cup home. Despite every challenge this past year, Tampa continues to ensure that our comeback is even greater than any setback," she said, as she ordered the city's buildings and bridges to light up blue in honor of the Lightning.

"Thank you to our team for working hard, playing hard, and giving our community something to celebrate. Can't wait for Stanley to get that tan."