RALEIGH, NC – The National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes will host their 12th annual season kick-off event, the Caniac Carnival, at the RBC Center on Sunday, Sept. 18 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year’s Carnival will feature activities for fans of all ages including a Red-White game, inflatable rides, interactive games and booths, live music and an autograph session with select Hurricanes players presented by RBC Bank. Parking and admission to the event are free.

The Carnival will begin at 9 a.m., when the RBC Center’s doors open for the rookie practice and wristband distribution for the autograph sessions. Players will be available to sign autographs from 10-11 a.m.  Fans can also sign up for the Crazy Caniac Challenge III, which will consist of running a lap around the RBC Center, eating two hot dogs, drinking a 12-ounce Pepsi product and then completing a final lap. All competitors will receive a Crazy Caniac T-shirt and the grand prize winner will receive two 12-game plans for the 2011-12 season. The race will begin at 10 a.m., and all proceeds from the $15 entry fee will benefit the Carolina Hurricanes Kids ‘N Community Foundation. 

The Red-White game will mark fans’ first opportunity this year to see the Canes in action, and all of the team’s veteran players are currently scheduled to participate. Seating for the scrimmage is general admission and a ticket is not required. The scrimmage will be played and timed like a regular NHL game, and will feature activities and contests for fans during the intermissions.

Following the game, 20 Caniacs will have the opportunity to come onto the ice and have their pictures taken with the team. Fans can enter to win that chance during the Red-White game in the east priority lounge, and winners will be announced during the second intermission. 

For more information regarding the 12th annual Caniac Carnival, click here.