Cleveland Scores Big With Bid For 2027 AHL All-Star Classic

Cleveland continues its run of all-star showings with the American Hockey League bringing its All-Star Classic to Rocket Arena in 2027.

In a unanimous decision, the AHL Board of Governors awarded the city the All-Star Classic, cementing the city as the next home for the league’s premier midseason showcase. 

The event will begin with the All-Star Skills Competition on Feb. 7 and followed by the All-Star Challenge on Feb. 8. The festivities continue on Monday with the AHL Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Ceremony, with additional programming set to be announced.

The All-Star Classic holds major significance within the hockey world. As the top development league for all 32 NHL teams, the AHL uses the event as a showcase for rising talent, and historically, more than 94 percent of its All-Star participants have gone on to play in the NHL. 

The weekend also draws general managers, scouts and league representatives from across North America, offering players a rare opportunity for exposure and advancement. 

Cleveland’s ties to the AHL All-Star Classic run deep. The city hosted the league’s inaugural event in 1942 and returned to the spotlight in 1954 and 1957 when the Cleveland Barons faced the AHL All-Stars. More recently, the 2025 All-Star Classic was held in Palm Desert, California, and the 2026 edition will head to Rockford, Illinois.

“Hosting premier sporting events shows the world that Cleveland can deliver unforgettable experiences and is a city where sports, culture and community come together,” said Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb.

Cleveland also boasts notable Monsters alumni who have made their mark on the All-Star stage. Head coach Trent Vogelhuber represented the North Division as a coach in 2024, while goaltender Jet Greaves, now with the Columbus Blue Jackets, earned a share of the Top Goaltender Award at that year’s Skills Competition. Defenseman Jake Christiansen, also currently with the Blue Jackets, was selected as a 2024 AHL All-Star, highlighting the strong talent pipeline connected to Cleveland.

For more updates about Cleveland, sign up for our Cleveland Magazine Daily newsletter, delivered to your inbox six times a week.

Cleveland Magazine is also available in print, publishing 12 times a year with immersive features, helpful guides and beautiful photography and design.