The Cleveland Monsters and the American Hockey League announced Thursday that the AHL Board of Governors has unanimously approved the Monsters to host the 2027 AHL All-Star Classic. The team is affiliated with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The 2027 AHL All-Star Classic will include the AHL All-Star Skills Competition the evening of Sunday, February 7, 2027, and the AHL All-Star Challenge on Monday, February 8, 2027.

The AHL Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Ceremony are also part of the All-Star festivities in Cleveland and will be held Monday morning. Additional programmed events surrounding the AHL All-Star Classic will be announced at a later date.  

“Cleveland stands as a pillar among historic American Hockey League cities, and the Monsters organization is one of our most successful franchises today,” said Scott Howson, AHL President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited to be bringing our showcase event to Rocket Arena and the city of Cleveland in 2027.”

Both the AHL All-Star Skills Competition and the AHL All-Star Challenge will take place at Rocket Arena in downtown Cleveland. Cleveland and the AHL All-Star Classic share a storied history with the city hosting the inaugural event on February 3, 1942.

The city’s hockey history also has a notable spot during the 1954 and 1957 All-Star Classics, when the Cleveland Barons faced the AHL All-Stars as the opposing team. 

“Cleveland has a proud and storied hockey tradition and it’s fitting that in the midst of our 20th season we celebrate the return of the AHL All-Star Classic to our city in 2027,” said Mike Ostrowski, Cleveland Monsters President.  

“The City of Cleveland is proud to welcome the 2027 American Hockey League All-Star Classic,” said Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb. “Fans and residents will not only get to enjoy hockey at the state-of-the-art Rocket Arena, but they’ll also experience the incredible amenities and vibrant neighborhoods, energizing our region’s economy.”

The annual AHL All-Star Classic features the top young talent in the American Hockey League: since 1995, more than 94 percent of All-Star Classic participants have gone on to compete in the National Hockey League.

In operation since 1936, the American Hockey League serves as the top development league for the players, coaches, managers, executives, broadcasters, and staff of all 32 National Hockey League teams.