FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Florida Panthers fans filled hotels on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Some were celebrating all night. Red jerseys dominated the crowd in the Elbo Room, a bar founded in 1938, that closes at 3 a.m.
Jeff Dion and his son Zachary were staying away from bars. The Dion family traveled from Canada to South Florida for Game 6 and decided to say. They were ready to experience the historic party.
“We can feel right now, the people, even a day before the parade, we can feel the atmosphere here,” Jeff Dion said. “That’s so great! I am 51; it’s something I have never felt in my life.”
Tom Kanuer and Katherine Kanuer, both of Delray Beach, also started to celebrate on Saturday. They have been waiting for the Stanley Cup victory for about a decade, and feel privileged to witness what has been 30 years in the making.
“We want to celebrate with the city because, you know, the world we live in today, it’s so seldom that you get so many people together for a positive reason,” Katherine Kanuer said.
The barrier island’s related road closures could start as early as 8 a.m., Sunday.
The parade’s peal of trumpets is at 11 a.m. at Riomar Street. The barriers along State Road A1A will extend to Southeast Fifth Street where the stage was ready for the rally on the beach sand.
During a recent news conference, Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Police Chief William Schultz suggested fans arrive early. City officials also discouraged driving to avoid traffic.
“We strongly urge you to plan ahead,” Trantalis said.
Rob Veglia said he is getting up “bright and early, get a spot right up front, and we are just going to cheer them on.” Some were already staking out their spots and planned to arrive as early as 6 a.m.
Here is everything you need to know:
WHAT TO WEAR
There will be a high possibility of scattered showers, so wear water-resistant or water-proof comfortable shoes, pack a lightweight poncho, and an umbrella just in case.
Temperatures will be in the 80s and 90s, so wear light fabrics, plan to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and bring a hat. Navy blue, red, white, and tan or gold will prevail.
“Make sure you bring water with you, make sure you wear a hat, make sure you wear light clothing,” Trantalis said.
WHERE TO PARK
City officials want fans to arrive early, and plan where to park by being familiar with the four best options.
“You need to expect major traffic delays on the island starting several hours before the event,” Schultz said.
- Galleria Mall, at 2414 East Sunrise Boulevard (Water taxis are $15);
- Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, at 3109 East Sunrise Boulevard;
- Bonnet House Museum and Gardens at 900 North Birch Road;
- The Heron Garage, at 2050 Eisenhower Boulevard, is also an option since Broward County Transit buses will provide free express services from the garage to Harbor Drive from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE TO GO
The parade begins at Riomar Street. There will be barriers along State Road A1A. It will end at Southeast Fifth Street where there is a stage set for the rally. City officials recommend arriving early to have options about where to watch the parade.
WHAT NOT TO TAKE
The city prohibits tents and tables on the beach between Las Olas Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale Beach Park.
Displays of wealth make you a target to thieves, so police officers want you to leave your valuables at home. Officers suggest fans carry their bags close to their bodies and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Police officers want fans to stay alert and beware of thieves who routinely use distraction tactics in crowded areas to get to pockets and bags.
IF YOU GO WITH CHILDREN
Police officers set up a tent near Bo’s Beach restaurant at 600 Seabreeze Boulevard as a reunification center. Officers will be issuing wristbands for your children to wear.
Prepare your child to avoid strangers and reach out to a police officer if they get separated in the crowd.
For more information, talk to the nearest uniformed police officer or call 954-828-8000 for assistance. Call 911 for emergencies.