Florida Panthers fans flock to Fort Lauderdale for championship parade

In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the local community is abuzz with excitement as the Florida Panthers celebrate their second consecutive Stanley Cup championship. Scheduled for Sunday, June 22, 2025, the championship parade is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of fans, a significantly higher turnout than the previous year's event. Local hotels and restaurants report being fully booked, as they prepare for what is anticipated to be one of the busiest weekends of the year, despite summer traditionally being a slow season for tourism in the area. Many businesses along the parade route are making last-minute adjustments to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors. Dante Reveyoso, general manager of Riviera Restaurant in the Hotel Maren, shared that his establishment has had to modify its orders multiple times, illustrating the rapid changes in demand as the event approaches. Both the restaurant and hotel are anticipating a large number of paradegoers, and similar sentiments are echoed by other local businesses, which expect to see a noticeable boost in sales. This surge is marked by Florida Panthers gear sales increasing by 30%, highlighting the team's impact on the local economy as fans look forward to celebrating their team's achievements. City officials have also highlighted the logistical aspects of the parade, emphasizing accessibility for visitors. A map is available showing 26 different parking garages that will be open on parade day, although these can be quite a walk from the main festivities. In response to potential parking challenges, the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi service has stepped up its operations, offering a more convenient mode of transportation for attendees. They are prepared to operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on parade day, allowing passengers flexibility to travel along the waterway at a reasonable price. The excitement extends beyond just the parade; it represents a moment of pride for the community and fans alike. Renee McKinney-Callender, director of human resources at The Atlantic Hotel & Spa, remarked on the pride of being part of the championship celebrations, which have seen guests extend their stays to partake in the festivities. Visitors, like Joe Donovan and his wife from Boston, are excited to witness a championship parade on the beach, contrasting their previous experiences with similar events. This year’s celebration serves as a testament to the team's success and the vibrant spirit of Fort Lauderdale.