A Lap of Leafs Ice Between Periods
I’ll admit it: I’ve always wanted a ride on the Zamboni. Now there’s a way to get pretty close. The Maple Leafs Fanboni is new this season at Scotiabank Arena, and it lets fans cruise around the ice during an intermission on an open-top ride that looks like a mini Zamboni crossed with a tour bus. You bring the Leafs gear and the cheering, and the arena brings the view from centre ice.
How Do You Get a Seat on the Fanboni?
It’s a Game Day Plus Up
The Fanboni is part of the Leafs Fan Access Game Day Plus Ups, the same lineup of extras that lets fans sit in the penalty box before the game, hit the goal horn or pose for photos on the ice afterward. Toronto Life reports the ride costs $70 per person.
Bring Your Game Ticket
Here’s the important part. The Plus Up is only the ride, so you’ll need a ticket to that night’s Leafs game as well. Ticketmaster listings also note the Fanboni involves climbing stairs and may not be accessible for people with mobility restrictions.
Popular Dates Go Quickly
Fans have clearly taken to it. Toronto Life noted that Fanboni rides for one early-October weekend had already sold out, so if you’ve got a date in mind, it’s worth booking early.
The Real Ice Work Still Happens
The Fanboni is just for fun, though. At intermission, the arena’s ice crew still handles the actual resurfacing. Scotiabank Arena keeps 2 Zambonis in-house, and NHL ice crews use both machines to lay down fresh water in just a few minutes, so the surface has time to freeze before the next period.
Planning Your Arena Night
If it’s your first time at Scotiabank Arena in a while, keep an eye out for the screens above Gate 1 on your way in. Here’s our look at them: Scotiabank Arena’s Gate 1 Ceiling Puts On a Show.
Your Turn: Would You Ride the Fanboni?
Would you hop on the Fanboni for a lap of Leafs ice, or are you happy cheering from your seat? Tell us in the comments. And watch to the end of the reel, because there’s a location-guess giveaway waiting for you.
Watch the reel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DeguvZ_uRkB/