Edmonton Oilers fans, Florida, Stanley Cup Game 7: Downtown crowd & beyond

Edmonton Oilers fans take over Florida streets in anticipation of Game 7 for the Stanley Cup. Oilers fans unite nationwide.

Hours before the deciding game for the Stanley Cup, Edmonton Oilers fans flooded the streets in the Alberta capital, while those who traveled to Florida matched and outshouted fans of the rival Panthers jersey for jersey. Tailgate parties outside Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Fla., saw a mix of Oilers and Panthers fans, with chants of "Go Oilers Go" overpowering "Let's Go Panthers!" at times.

One Oilers fan, Richard Haas, expressed his surprise at the number of Oilers fans in attendance, calling it mind-boggling and a testament to the Oilers' unique fan base. Another fan, Mike Reimer, highlighted the 34-year drought since the Oilers' last Stanley Cup win in 1990 and the desire to witness a possible end to that streak.

In Edmonton, fans filled the downtown area, wearing Oilers jerseys and enjoying the summer heat while watching the game on big screens. The watch parties have become a staple of the Oilers' playoff run, creating instant celebrities like Mama Stanley. Across Canada, fans from coast to coast have been cheering on the Oilers, hoping to see a Canadian team hoist the Cup for the first time since 1993.

The excitement and camaraderie surrounding the Oilers' playoff run have brought fans together in celebration, with watch parties and events held in various cities across the country. Federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, a native of Alberta, expressed her support for the Oilers and their captain, Connor McDavid, as they vied for the Stanley Cup.

As fans eagerly awaited the outcome of Game 7, the energy and passion for the Oilers were palpable, both in Edmonton and beyond. The anticipation of a possible championship win after years of waiting added to the excitement and fervor surrounding the team. The sense of unity and pride among Oilers fans was evident as they came together to support their team in their quest for hockey's ultimate prize.

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