Elite League Play Off Weekend 2026 Guide
As the pinnacle of the UK ice hockey calendar, the Elite League Play Off Weekend 2026 promises another thrilling showdown of speed, skill, and fan-fuelled intensity. This two-day season final is the unmissable climax to the EIHL season, drawing fans from across the UK for a celebration of the sport like no other.
Regardless of which team you support, the playoff weekend is the place for every ice hockey fan offering an incredible atmosphere. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan the ultimate EIHL playoff weekend experience — including official tickets, hotel recommendations, and travel tips.
What Is the Elite League Play Off Weekend?
The EIHL Play Off Finals features the four British Ice Hockey teams that advance from the quarter-finals, competing in a semi-final double-header on Saturday, followed by the third-pace playoff and Grand Final on Sunday. The event isn’t just about what happens on the ice — it’s a full weekend of atmosphere, fan meetups, and unforgettable memories.
When and Where: Play Off Weekend 2026 Details
- Dates: TBC
- Location: TBC
- Format:
- Saturday: Two semi-finals (winner advances to Grand Final)
- Sunday: Bronze medal match & EIHL Grand Final
- Game time: TBC
- In 2025, Saturday's games took place at 3PM & 7PM
- In 2025, Sunday's games took place at 1PM & 5PM
Register your interest in this event now to be the first to hear when the dates and venue are released
Why Book Through Sports Entertainment Tours?
As the Official Travel Partner for the Elite League, our ticket packages include:
- Verified, official Playoff Weekend tickets
- City-centre hotel accommodation
- Optional travel add-ons
- 24/7 fan support and itinerary guidance
We work directly with teams and organisers to provide premium ice hockey packages that offer a smooth, secure, and memorable weekend.
What's Included in our Elite League Play Off Experiences?
Our EIHL Playoff Weekend packages are designed with fans in mind. Whether you're travelling solo, planning a memorable weekend for two, or bringing the whole family along, we have options to suit all kinds of experiences.
Ticket Options
- Full weekend ticket (access to all four games)
- Reserved seating in your chosen team blocks
- Family and concession ticket options available
Accommodation
- A variety of hotel options to suit every budget from affordable stays to premium comfort
- Group booking options available
- Flexible check in and checkout options
Travel
Looking for package travel deals from Belfast? Our Belfast Giants Play Off travel packages include return flights, airport transfers to and from your chosen hotel, and game tickets.
Looking to buy Elite League tickets for the weekend? You’ll need to act fast — demand is always high and our official EIHL ticket and hotel experiences sell out.
Official Playoff Party
On Friday, 18th April 2025, the Saltbox Bar hosted the Official Play Off Party
The event included:
- Live Q&A with special guests. 2025 special guests included Todd Kelman, Managing Director of the Cardiff Devils, Aaron Murphy, Glasgow Clan’s commentator and more.
- Live music all night!
- Delicious food & drink
- Photo opportunity with the Playoff Trophy
- Your first chance to buy official merchandise
For updates about the 2026 Official Playoff Party – watch this space
Playoff Weekend Seating
The EIHL Playoff Weekend seating is arranged to bring together fans in dedicated Supporter’s Block - perfect for fans who want to celebrate goals and share the electric atmosphere with fellow supporters of their team.
Each team has its own designated section, creating a vibrant and united fan base full of flags, chants and nonstop energy. In 2025, every fan received a rally towel in their team’s colours, turning the Motorpoint Arena into a spectacular sea of colour and passion.
Be sure to book early to secure your seat within your team’s Supporters’ Block and experience the Playoff Weekend atmosphere to the fullest.
Atmosphere & Fan Experience
The Play Off Weekend isn’t just a hockey tournament — it’s a celebration. Fans arrive early, decked out in team colours, with flags, chants, and pre-game drinks. Whether it’s singing in the pub or cheering on your team in the stands, the weekend is known for its inclusive, electric vibe.
There are usually fan parties on Friday and Saturday nights, including meet-and-greets with former players and competitions. Let us know if you'd like to add access to any of these events to your booking.
Post-weekend Celebrations
To wrap up an incredible Playoff Weekend, celebrations continue across Nottingham. For POW25 the heart of the festivity was at the Saltbox Bar, where the winners- the Nottingham Panthers – celebrated with their new silverware, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for fans and players alike.
Fans had the chance to get up close with the team, snapping photos with the players and the coveted playoff trophy, making the celebration even more memorable.
Highlights from the 2025 Play Off Weekend
The Elite League Play Off Weekend 2025 delivered an unforgettable final to the season at Motorpoint Arena. Fans were treated to high-intensity hockey, dramatic finishes, and one of the most passionate atmospheres in UK sport.
Nottingham Panthers Crowned Champions
The hometown heroes, Nottingham Panthers, captured the EIHL Play Off title in front of a chanting crowd. Their path to the trophy included a win against Cardiff Devils 4-3 in second period overtime to win the 2025 Elite League Playoff Championship title.
Panthers lead 3-0 but were brought back to 3-3 and both sides had goals disallowed in overtime on the most breath-taking of fashion.
Cardiff Devils – The Standout Runners-Up
The Cardiff Devils fought hard all weekend, showcasing their attacking flair and grit. As runners-up, they pushed Nottingham to the limit in a tense final and proved once again why they are consistently among the league's top sides.
Belfast Giants – Double Honours
Although they didn't lift the Play Off trophy, the Belfast Giants had plenty to celebrate in 2025. They were crowned Elite League champions for finishing top of the regular season standings and also secured silverware by winning the Challenge Cup, adding to their growing legacy as one of the most successful modern EIHL clubs.
The 2025 weekend raised the bar for fan experience, intensity, and match quality — setting the stage for an even bigger Elite League Play Off Weekend 2026.
Can't make it to the Arena?
No problem – you can still watch all the action from home.
In 2025, all four Playoff Weekend games were streamed live on EIHL TV, including both semi-finals, the 3rd place playoff, and the grand final, with each game available for £16.
Premier Sports also broadcast the grand final live on Sunday, bringing the biggest game of the season to fans across the UK.
Stay tuned for details on 2026 coverage – whether you’re in the arena or on the sofa, you won’t miss a moment.
Booking Early Matters
Tickets and hotels for the Elite League Play Offs go fast. Booking early means:
- Guaranteed seating in your team’s section
- Lower hotel rates and better availability
Want to make the most of your EIHL playoff travel package? Register interest early and secure your spot.
"The Play Offs are the highlight of the UK hockey calendar. Every year, we see fans return for that same unbeatable mix of drama, passion, and celebration. It’s a full weekend that everyone should experience at least once."
— John Boyde, Managing Director, Sports Entertainment Tours
Book your Elite League Play Off Weekend 2026
From official Elite League tickets to Nottingham hotel packages, we make your booking simple, secure, and fully supported.
📞 Call our team today for availability
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