I finally went to an Ottawa Senators game. Here's why you should, too

The puck crashes into the net, the goal horn blares, and the crowd erupts – suddenly you're not just watching hockey, you're a part of it. That's the real magic of an Ottawa Senators game. 

This month, I went to my very first Ottawa Senators game at Canadian Tire Centre, and it didn’t take long to see why hockey holds such a special place in Canadian culture. I have a passing interest in sports and absolutely no experience with hockey. Still, I'm a Canadian girl, so when my boss offered me the chance to experience my first game, I jumped at the opportunity to see why hockey legend Ken Dryden first called it “Canada’s Game.”  

What I discovered was something far beyond just a sporting event. This is an unforgettable Ottawa experience you have to feel for yourself.  

Here’s what made the night stand out, and why you’ll want to have seats next time the Ottawa Senators hit the ice.  

The incredible amount of food options surprised me 

Before the match-up against the Seattle Kraken started, I wandered around the arena, instantly swept up the aroma of smoky barbecue and buttery popcorn drifting through the concourse. The sheer number of choices surprised me; each stall tempted with its own mouthwatering options, making it nearly impossible to settle on just one choice. It turns out Executive Chef John Mitchell of Aramark curates the menu, incorporating local favourites and creative dishes. (CAA Business Members who save 10% on suites using their Membership can also order delectable treats like the world-famous Golden Palace egg rolls for their game night from the extensive suites menu.) 

For my game-night meal, I made my first stop at Meatings Barbeque, a popular Ottawa stand inside the arena. I tried their crispy tater tots, dunked in smoky chipotle mayo, paired with their pulled pork sandwich — a hearty, satisfying combo that kicked off the evening. 

Then I headed over to The Chef's Kitchen, the full-service restaurant where I sampled spicy cauliflower bao buns that packed a punch, and the tourtière kettle nachos. This creative dish blends nachos and French meat pie for a memorable nod to Quebec’s culinary roots. (You can learn six things to know about poutine in CAA Magazine.)

The arena also caters to a range of dietary needs, offering halal, vegan, and gluten-free options so every fan can enjoy what's on offer, including the classic Canadian carb load at Smoke’s Poutinerie. I was delighted to see how inclusive they are, ensuring there’s something for everyone.  

An unforgettable night of hockey

As the singing of “O Canada” filled the arena, fans stood shoulder to shoulder, united by the anthem. When it ended and cheers echoed through every corner of the arena, it felt like a collective expression of pride that felt distinctly Canadian. 

The players took their positions, and the first period of the night began. The crowd's reaction to every goal or slight miss was the most striking part, as each play met either a groan when the Seattle Kraken scored or a roar when the Sens potted the puck in the net. And when the Senators scored their first goal, the entire arena lit up in red with chants of "Go Sens Go," coming from each part of the crowd.  

An intermission show performance from the band Rainwater and Whiskey kept the energy high, and by the end of the third period, the score was tied 3-3.  

Why you need to be there for the thrill of overtime

After an intense but exciting game, it was finally time to settle the tie and establish the winner of the night.  

Everyone was on the edge of their seats in overtime, with many standing up, waiting for one team to make a move as the score stayed tied. Neither the Sens nor the Kraken managed to break through overtime, resulting in a shootout that would end the game. Ultimately, the Senators scored, securing a 4-3 win.  

The arena erupted in a roar of approval as red and white lights swept across the stands, and players rushed onto the ice in a wave of excitement, while fans celebrated the hard-fought win.  

As I made my way out of the area, I couldn't help but think about what the night meant to me. It wasn't just about watching a team win; it was about feeling connected to something bigger—the kind of shared joy that defines nights like this in Ottawa. 

Save big on game night 

If you've never been to an Ottawa Senators game, now's the perfect time to go as the season heats up. Whether you're a hard-core fan or just curious about hockey, you won’t want to miss the experience of seeing a game in person. 

CAA Members save big on tickets and $13 off parking on select Ottawa Senators home games.