Thousands expected for Humboldt Broncos tribute concert

Close to 13,000 people are expected to attend the Humboldt Broncos tribute concert Friday at Sasktel Centre to benefit victims’ families affected by the crash.

Country music stars and hockey stars from across the country are combining for the unique show.

Dallas Smith, Brett Kissel, Jess Moskaluke, Gord Bamford, Chad Brownlee and the Hunter Brothers are the featured entertainment for the three-and-a-half hour show that will mix music and heartfelt tributes.

The concert will honour victims of the crash that left 16 people dead and injured 13 others when the Humboldt Broncos’ team bus collided with a semi-trailer on April 6.

Here are some things to know before making your way to the show.

Transit schedule

The city is hoping people attending the nearly sold out concert use transit to avoid parking congestion.

Transit will provide its usual bus fares for $3 per trip from the special events stop (outside the 2nd Avenue Lofts at 23rd Street and 2nd Avenue) to Sasktel Centre.

Buses will leave to the arena at the following times:

• 5:15 p.m.
• 5:30 p.m.
• 5:55 p.m.
• 6:10 p.m.
• 6:35 p.m.
• 6:50 p.m.

Yellow buses will also be leaving at the city’s major malls for a $5 round trip fee starting at 5:30 p.m., with the last bus leaving at 6:40 p.m.

Lawson Heights Mall, Market Mall, Centre Mall and Confederation Mall are the locations for the yellow buses.

Jersey Auction

More than 30 NHL players, both past and present, are expected to be in attendance.

As a unique way to involve NHL stars, an online jersey auction has been running all week and will end at 9 p.m.

Most of the jerseys in the auction are of NHLers at the concert. Winning bidders will get to meet the player and have the jersey autographed.

Doors are open to the public at 5:30 p.m. The concert begins at 7 p.m.