SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Hockey fans flocked to the MassMutual Center on Saturday for a sold-out Springfield Thunderbirds season opener game, but not before some opening night celebrations. The Plaza at MGM Springfield hosted a block party for fans from 3 TO 5 p.m. in the afternoon with live music and food and drinks, and some fans opted for the launch at the Landing instead running from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m.

While the Thunderbirds did have home team advantage in the Thunderdome, the Charlotte Checkers did take the win with a close score of 4 to 3. The Thunderbirds have another chance at their first win of the season on Saturday as they travel to Pennsylvania to take on the Hershey Bears. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. on Saturday.

See Full Page