Thousands packed Thunder Alley before the game. Credit: Chip Weiner

Thousands packed Thunder Alley before the game. Credit: Chip Weiner


Yes, the Lightning lost the first game of the Stanley Cup Finals at Amalie Arena on Wednesday night.

Still, the party outside in Thunder Alley as well as the surrounding bars was crowded and loud. Even though tickets were hard to come by, it didn't stop thousands of people from heading down to Channelside.

Sean Ruane swears the Bolts will win the Cup. Credit: Chip Weiner

Chris Heck of Chicago is convinced his team will win it all, and painted his face to prove it. Credit: Chip Weiner

Jose Martinez’s haircut shows off his loyalty to the home team. Credit: Chip Weiner

Chicago fans Jesus and Angela Vasquez said the boos from Bolts fans didn’t bother them. Credit: Chip Weiner

Jeremy Roenick, a nine-time NHL All-Star turned commentator, interviews hockey fans in Thunder Alley. Credit: Chip Weiner

The Hulkster himself makes his way through the crowds. Credit: Chip Weiner

Pre-game analysis al fresco. Credit: Chip Weiner

Inside Ferg’s Live, where there was a monitor tuned to the game everywhere you looked. Credit: Chip Weiner

“We want the Cup!” chanted the crowd. Credit: Chip Weiner

A foreshadowing of things to come? Credit: Chip Weiner

This article appears in Jun 4-10, 2015.