Stanley Cup Final: Rangers Host Game 1 Viewing Party At Bryant Park
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- If you were looking for a place to watch Game 1 of the Stanley Cup finals, the New York Rangers had you covered.
Not only has the team partnered with 30 bars and restaurants in the Tri-State Area -- dubbed "Playoff Viewing Party Headquarters" -- they also gave fans a place to gather en masse in Manhattan on Wednesday to watch Game 1 against the Los Angeles Kings -- which the Rangers lost 3-2 in overtime.
The Rangers hosted a free fan fest at Bryant Park beginning at 4 p.m., complete with face painting, prizes and appearances by former Rangers.
CBS 2's Tracee Carrasco caught up with some fans who couldn't wait to watch their beloved Blueshirts take the first step toward their first NHL championship in 20 years.
"We've been lifelong fans and we're just really excited to see our boys really, finally make it to the pinnacle of hockey and hopefully they can win it and we're ready to get it started," said Kevin Dolan of Yonkers.
"To bring my kids to watch it for the first time, myself coming down here to the city, it's amazing, amazing," added Henry Yanez of Union County, N.J.
"I didn't want to be home tonight. I want to watch it here in front of the number one fans in all of New York. No better place, no better people," said Charley Novack of the Upper East Side.
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Event-goers were not permitted to bring alcohol, chairs, tables, bicycles, tarps or anything else prohibited by Bryant Park rules onto the lawn, the team said.
Game 2 will be at Staples Center in Los Angeles, as was Game 1. The Rangers will return home to Madison Square Garden for Game 3 on Monday.
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