The NHL is going big for its 100th anniversary, detailing plans to celebrate the milestone with a slate of initiatives that begin on Jan. 1 in Toronto with the NHL Centennial Classic outdoor game between the Red Wings/Maple Leafs. Wayne Gretzky is on-board to serve as the official ambassador, with events set to include a 12-month festival of events and content initiatives culminating with the anniversary of the League’s founding on Nov. 26 and first games on Dec. 19. Among the activations: NHL Centennial Truck Tour; the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade; the 100 Greatest NHL Players and Gala; Stanley Cup celebrations; documentaries; 100 Iconic NHL Moments and the NHL Time Capsule.

“A century of great players, great plays and great moments deserves a year-long celebration, and we invite everyone to join our party in 2017,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said. “We are delighted that Wayne Gretzky — whose spectacular contributions on the ice matched his immeasurable graciousness and popularity off the ice — will serve as our Centennial’s official ambassador as we honor all the drama, suspense, excitement and memories that have thrilled the best fans in sports for generations.”