The Buffalo Sabres have announced a series of events and promotions for their 2025-26 season home opener, which will take place on October 9 at the KeyBank Center. The event is presented by KeyBank.
Festivities begin at 3:45 p.m. with a “Party in Ticketmaster Alumni Plaza,” featuring live music, activities, food and beverages, as well as appearances from players and alumni. Fans are invited to welcome Sabres players as they arrive and walk the Blue and Gold Carpet outside the arena.
Entertainment will include a performance by Nerds Gone Wild at 4:45 p.m. in the plaza. There will also be photo opportunities available for attendees, including a special “Welcome to the Sabrehood” sign and a commemorative ticket station provided by Ticketmaster where fans can receive a print-out ticket as a keepsake.
Inside the arena, fans can visit the KeyBank photo opportunity at Aisle 16 on the 100 Level for a chance to win a signed Rasmus Dahlin jersey and an LED sign by taking a photo and scanning a QR code.
KeyBank is providing each attendee with a commemorative rally towel placed on their seat. Doors open at 5 p.m.
Security screening at KeyBank Center has been updated with Evolv Express technology, which allows fans to be scanned without emptying their pockets. This system was recognized by Sports Business Journal as best in sports technology in 2024 and is used in arenas nationwide.
A new interactive pregame light show, presented by KeyBank, will debut this season. Fans can participate by scanning a QR code displayed on the videoboard before puck drop; no app download is required.
The Sabres are also introducing a new goal song for games when the team wears blue and gold uniforms. Fans have submitted songs, and voting has narrowed choices to five finalists. Voting is open once per day through October 3 at sabres.com/goalsong.
Additionally, there will be a guaranteed $50,000 jackpot for the game’s 50/50 raffle, with second-chance prizes such as team-signed memorabilia available. Tickets can be purchased both at the game or online at https://sabres.com/5050.
“Vote for our new goal song → https://t.co/eqe0liI4Dl#LetsGoBuffalo | #sabrehoodpic.twitter.com/xdCehTod1G
— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) September 22, 2025″
The home opener features several opportunities for fan engagement ahead of the matchup between the Buffalo Sabres and New York Rangers.
