Montreal Canadiens Could Advance to Stanley Cup Final on Quebec’s Fete Nationale

Montreal Canadiens Could Advance to Stanley Cup Final on Quebec’s Fete Nationale
Montreal Canadiens celebrate after defeating the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 5 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup semifinal playoff series on June 22, 2021, in Las Vegas. (AP/The Canadian Press/John Locher)
The Canadian Press
6/24/2021
Updated:
6/24/2021

MONTREAL—For the first time since 1993, the Montreal Canadiens are one win away from the Stanley Cup final.

Tonight’s game—being played in Montreal—coincides with Quebec’s Fête nationale holiday.

At some Montreal bars, patrons have been told to arrive between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. if they want to get a table to watch the 8 p.m. game.

Quebec’s COVID-19 restrictions require bar patrons to be seated and dancing is not allowed.

Bar operators in downtown Montreal say the Habs’ playoff run has led to a dramatic increase in business, following months of COVID-19 closures.

Still, some say they’re worried victory celebrations may get out of control.