Fans pack Amalie Arena for Lightning's Hockey Day

TAMPA, Fla. (FOX 13) - The cheers of Tampa Bay Lightning fans could be heard throughout Amalie Arena Saturday night as they witnessed the Bolt's big 5-4 win over the Penguins. But just hours later on Sunday morning, the arena was once again packed for the Lightning's seventh annual Hockey Day. 

"We're getting ready to play the tournament. We've been practicing for a very long time, so we're pretty excited," said 10-year-old Vihaan Gowda, a participant in Sunday's activities.

The youngest of Lightning fans got the chance to hit the ice themselves during the Lightning Made Learn to Play Jamboree, one of the many hockey-themed events of the day. 

"It's amazing, playing hockey where they were not even eight hours ago," said 9-year-old, Evan Shirely. 

The hockey excitement could be felt outside the arena too. Over 600 kids grabbed their sticks and suited up to compete for the annual Chase Street Hockey Tournament. 

"It's the experience of being able to come out here and play in this amazing place," Vihaan said. "Like, I can't even believe it myself right now. I'm having trouble comprehending it."

While kid-friendly competition continued throughout the morning, the adults got in on the hockey fun as well. 

Lightning fans had a chance to buy team gear and witness the Battle of the Badges, a matchup between local fire and police officers as well as Lightning alumni. 

"That's pretty cool, because my favorite is Stamos, but I think it's just cool being out here and being right next to the arena," said Daniel Pullaro, a 12-year-old fan.

Hockey Day wrapped up with the Lightning High School Hockey League's top teams facing off in the LHSHL Championship.