ECHL: Atlanta Gladiators Theme Night Lineup—From Star Wars to Teddy Bear Toss

Photos: Taylor Trebotte | Inside the Rink

Get ready, Glads fans—the Atlanta Gladiators have officially unveiled their 2025-26 promotional schedule, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons yet at Gas South Arena. This year’s calendar isn’t just about hockey (though there’ll be plenty of that, too)—it’s about creating memorable experiences for fans of all ages. From family-friendly afternoons with Bluey to adrenaline-pumping nights with Marvel heroes, from honoring our nation’s military to celebrating the roots of Atlanta hockey, the Glads are rolling out a lineup of theme nights designed to make every game feel like a can’t-miss event.

Some of your favorite traditions are back in action this year, including the Teddy Bear Toss, which has officially moved back to February. (Translation: you’ve got even more time to start collecting those stuffed animals and get ready to launch them onto the ice for a great cause!) The Glads are surely hoping to break their franchise record for stuffed animals tossed, a mark they set in 2023 when they collected 15,067 bears, dogs, and other plush friends after scoring just 51 seconds into the game.

And this season, the Gladiators are adding a Sensory Friendly Game to the mix, creating a welcoming, accessible hockey experience for fans with sensory sensitivities. Whether you’re a longtime season ticket holder or just looking for a fun night out with friends and family, the 2025-26 season promises something for everyone, on and off the ice.

Season Highlights: What’s in Store?

In October, the Gladiators kick things off with Opening Night on October 18, when they’ll hit the ice in specialty Gladiator jerseys against the Utah Grizzlies. The very next day, October 19, families can enjoy the return of Bluey, with the beloved character visiting Gas South Arena for meet-and-greets throughout the afternoon.

The fun continues in November, starting with Day of the Dead Night on November 1, when the Glads will take on Savannah in themed jerseys. On November 22, the team hosts Glads Fight Cancer Night, honoring those who continue to fight, supporting survivors, and remembering loved ones—all while wearing special jerseys for the cause.

In December, fans can break out the cowboy boots for Frosty Boots & Country Roots Night on December 27, when the Glads take on the Savannah Ghost Pirates in this southern-style showdown. Earlier in the month, Marvel Night returns on December 19, complete with special superhero-themed jerseys.

The new year kicks off in January with the return of a fan-favorite: Star Wars Night on January 3, when the Glads face off against the Greensboro Gargoyles in Star Wars specialty jerseys. The month also includes Military Night on January 9, as the Gladiators honor active-duty service members, veterans, and military families. Then on January 19, the Glads will host their first-ever Sensory Friendly Game, creating a hockey experience with lower volume, fewer flashing lights, and a supportive environment for fans with sensory needs.

In February, one of the most anticipated nights of the season is back—the Teddy Bear Toss, now paired with Love on the Ice, will take place on February 14. Fans are encouraged to bring stuffed animals and toss them onto the ice after the Glads’ first goal, all to benefit local charities. Last year, they dropped out of Inside the Rink’s Championship, missing out of the Top Three in the ECHL. We will see if Atlanta can return to the podium for the total amount of stuffed animals this year. Earlier in the month, fans can get creative during the Glads’ first-ever Brick Bash on February 6, featuring block-building fun as the team faces Jacksonville.

March brings even more community celebrations, starting with a St. Patrick’s Day game on March 15. The Gladiators will also honor Atlanta’s hockey legacy with Hockey Heritage Weekend on March 27 and 28, a two-night tribute featuring vintage throwback jerseys and a nod to Atlanta’s rich hockey history.

Finally, in April, the Gladiators continue their commitment to inclusion with Hockey is for Everyone Night on April 4, part of the ECHL’s league-wide initiative. The regular season wraps up with Fan Appreciation Night on April 10, a chance for the team to thank the fans with giveaways, memorable moments, and a final home ice celebration.

Here is the full theme night schedule drop:


Don’t Miss Out!

With a mix of returning favorites and new theme nights, the 2025-26 Gladiators promotional schedule is packed with action, entertainment, and community events. Additional theme nights may still be added, so keep an eye on team updates.

Source: Atlanta Gladiators Official Website – Gladiators Release 2025-26 Promotional Schedule


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Karen Zehner

Inside The Rink ECHL Manager | Senior Editor | Credentialed Beat Writer covering the ECHL Atlanta Gladiators. Diving into the world of slap shots, penalty kills, and the game we love. [@RunwithK] on socials.

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