Tampa Bay Lightning vs St. Louis Blues

Lightning-Blues Battle Brings Holiday Week Hockey to Channelside

The Tampa Bay Lightning face off against the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday, December 22nd at 7:00 PM, delivering prime NHL action during the heart of holiday week. Amalie Arena transforms into a fortress of sound and energy when the Lightning take the ice, and this matchup against a perennial Western Conference contender promises the kind of physical, playoff-style hockey that defines December games. The 7:00 puck drop gives fans time to settle in after work while still wrapping up early enough for those juggling holiday commitments.

What to Expect:

This Lightning vs Blues matchup carries extra weight as both teams jockey for playoff positioning heading into the new year. The crowd at Amalie Arena events brings an intensity that visiting teams consistently cite as one of the league's toughest environments, with the famous "Tesla coil" goal celebrations rattling the rafters. St. Louis plays a grinding, defensive style that often turns these games into low-scoring chess matches, so expect every shift to matter and the building to erupt when the Bolts finally break through.

Insider Tips:

- Doors typically open 90 minutes before puck drop, giving early arrivals access to warmups and a chance to watch both teams' pregame routines
- The Ford Thunder Alley entrance on the east side moves faster than the main Channelside entrance during peak arrival times
- Concession stands on the 200 level tend to have shorter lines than the main concourse, especially during first intermission
- December games often feature holiday-themed promotions, so check the team's app for any special giveaways or theme nights
- The Chase Club and Lexus Lounge offer upscale food options if standard arena fare doesn't appeal
- Dress in layers since arena temperatures can swing from chilly during warmups to warm once the crowd fills in

Getting There:

Amalie Arena sits at 401 Channelside Drive in downtown Tampa's waterfront district, accessible from multiple directions. The Pam Iorio Parking Garage on Channelside Drive sits just 132 meters from the arena entrance and fills quickly but offers covered parking. Green Parking Lot on Eunice Street provides another close option at 128 meters away, while the Selmon Expressway Parking Lots 2 and 3 on South Florida Avenue and South Morgan Street respectively offer surface parking about 240 meters out. The TECO Line Streetcar stops directly at the HSBC station on Water Street, just 96 meters from the arena, connecting riders from Ybor City and downtown. The Borein Street bus stop at Jefferson Street sits 262 meters away for those using Hillsborough Area Regional Transit. Walking from the convention center area takes about five minutes along the Riverwalk.

Local Scene:

Channelside's dining scene makes pre-game planning easy with options steps from the arena. Yard House at 450 Channelside Drive sits just 105 meters away, offering an extensive draft list and menu that works for groups arriving early. Lilac at 500 Channelside Drive brings upscale vegetarian options for those wanting something beyond typical sports bar fare before the game. 3 Corners Pizza on Water Street provides quick slices for fans cutting it close on time, located 147 meters from the arena. Post-game crowds often migrate to The Pearl Tampa at 823 Water Street for cocktails and late-night atmosphere. The Riverwalk itself offers a scenic stroll before or after the game, with Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park providing waterfront views just 119 meters from the arena entrance.