Mike Babcock, coach of the Red Wings, has a personal invitation for you. Jam the Joe tonight! You’re invited to bring your family to the Joe Louis Arena and watch the Red Wings practice. It’s free and should be a lot of fun. Plus, the Wings have a special treat for you after the practice.

The practice takes place from 7-7:45pm. Then from 8 until 10pm there will be an open skate. But here’s the deal. You must be one of the first 500 to register for the open skate when you get there at 7pm. Registration will be taking place on the concourse at the west entrance doors.  And if you do intend to skate, you must bring your own skates.

Parking will be at the Riverfront lot at the Joe.

This is nice! You can sip and nosh on goodies at special prices. Hot dogs, 32 ounce sodas, popcorn, cheese nachos and bottled water are a great deal at just a buck each.

The Wings open the season Saturday night at 8 in St. Louis. Then after a stop in Columbus, they’ll play  their home opener at the Joe next Tuesday against the Dallas Stars.