Tampa Prepares For Another Bolts Stanley Cup Run

TAMPA, FL -- Lightning pride abounds as the team prepares for the first series of Stanley Cup Playoffs Wednesday.

Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and former Lightning captain Vinny Lecavalier were on hand Monday to watch as the "Congratulations, Go Bolts" banner was hung on City Hall with the help of Tampa Fire Rescue's ladder truck and the team's mascot, Thunderbug.

Buckhorn recalled the feeling of pride he had last year when he first unveiled the Lightning banner as the team headed into the 2018 playoffs.

"This is the last time I get to do that, but I think this might be the most special time because I think we are on verge of an amazing run through the playoffs," said Buckhorn.

Lecavalier echoed those sentiments.

"They have a great coach; got a great team around them and great players," he said.

Once again, Tampa Bay is about to come down with Lightning fever as the Bolts host Game 1 at Amalie Arena Wednesday at 7 p.m. against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Prior to the game, the evening will start with a free concert in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park featuring the Grammy-winning band, Cage the Elephant. The concert begins at 5:15 p.m. and is free.

After the concert, the Tampa Bay Lightning will host a watch party at the park featuring the live game broadcast, entertainment, giveaways, food trucks and games.

Fans with tickets to the game can participate in the "Route to the Rink," a pep rally walk along the Tampa Riverwalk from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park to Amalie Arena.

Here is the schedule of games:

• Game 1 - Wed, 7 p.m. (USA)
• Game 2 - Friday, 7 p.m. (CNBC)
• Game 3 - Sunday, April 14 at 7 p.m. @ CBJ (NBCSN)
• Game 4 - Tuesday, April 16 at 7 p.m. @ CBJ (CNBC)
• *Game 5 - Friday, April 19, To Be Announed (TBD)
• *Game 6 - Sunday, April 21, TBA @ CBJ (TBD)
• *Game 7- Tuesday, April 23, TBA (TBD)

*If necessary

For playoff tickets, visit the Lightning website or call the ticket office at 813-301-2500.