Omaha Scores Big with New Hockey Exhibition

09/16/25

The thrill of the ice rink is coming to The Durham Museum! Opening October 4, 2025, HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever is an interactive exhibition that explores the history, science and lore behind the “coolest” sport on earth.

From the evolution of skates and equipment to jerseys of NHL star players, the exhibit offers something for everyone — die-hard fans, families and newcomers alike. Visitors can test their skills through hands-on challenges in a replica rink, explore dynamic displays and discover the gear that drives the action on the ice.

“Partnering with the Montréal Science Centre allowed us to create a unique experience celebrating sports and science. We intended to demonstrate how technology, physics, and innovation have transformed the game throughout history. We’re thrilled with the result, an exhibition that will fascinate sports enthusiasts and curious minds alike,” said Jay Brown, Principal & Managing Director of Flying Fish.

Interactive highlights include:

Don’t Blink – How many lights can you hit in 60 seconds?
Need for Speed – Clock your fastest shot in three tries
Score Like a Pro – Compare your shot against the pros
Stanley Cup® Touchscreen – Pay tribute to hockey’s most coveted trophy
Selfie Spot – Get up close with a real ice resurfacer

Discover how our local story fits into the national one, explore a companion exhibit curated by The Durham Museum celebrating Omaha’s own hockey heritage, Omaha’s Hat Trick: Knights, Lancers and Mavericks. From our first games in 1939 to unforgettable victories and heartbreaking defeats, this companion exhibit brings Omaha’s proud hockey tradition to life.

“We were delighted to welcome HOCKEY: Faster than Ever, an exhibition to which we are proud to have contributed. It delighted all visitors, from lab athletes to arena scientists, from young athletes to sports statistics experts,” said Cybèle Robichaud, Director of the Montréal Science Centre.

These exhibitions run through January 11, 2026. Museum admission is free for museum members and children ages 2 and under. Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and military/veterans and $8 for children ages 3-12. The Durham Museum is closed Mondays. For full museum hours visit DurhamMuseum.org/hours.

Icebreaker! Opening Weekend Fan Fest
Sunday, October 5, Noon–4PM
Kick off HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever with a fan celebration as cool as the game itself. Meet members of local hockey teams, check out memorabilia from UNO’s Blue Line Club, and take in HOCKEY: Faster than ever with a great crowd.

Omaha’s Hat Trick: Knights, Lancers and Mavericks Exhibition
October 4 – January 11
Explore Omaha’s own history on ice. Omaha’s Hat Trick: Knights, Lancers and Mavericks offers a fascinating look into the trials and triumphs of three storied hockey organizations — from the defunct but beloved Omaha Knights, who first hit the ice in 1939, to the growth of the Omaha Lancers and Mavericks. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or a fan of history, this deep dive into local hockey lore is sure to score big.

Frozen Memories-A Hockey Discussion Panel
Thursday, October 16, 5-8PM
Omaha’s hockey roots trace back more than 80 years, beginning with the Omaha Knights and continuing with the Omaha Lancers and Mavericks. Join us for a spirited conversation with those who have elevated the sport in our hometown. Hear about the city’s deep hockey past, filled with stories of triumphs, nostalgia and reflection.

Panelists include:

Mike Kemp, inaugural coach of the Omaha Mavericks
Gary S. Anderson, author of Those Were the Knights: The History of Professional Hockey in Omaha
Ted Baer, former owner of the Omaha Lancers
Terry Leahy (moderator), voice of the Omaha Mavericks

Presentation begins at 6:30PM. Join us for a social hour starting at 5PM with light bites, a cash bar and access to HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever. Open to the public, regular admission applies, free to museum members. Advance registration is required at DurhamMuseum.org, reservations@DurhamMuseum.org or 402-444-5071

HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever® is produced and toured internationally by Flying Fish in collaboration with the Montréal Science Centre and supported by the ©NHL and the ©NHLPA. This exhibit is supported locally by Douglas County, Nebraska, the D F Dillon Foundation, Rhonda & Howard Hawks, David & Jane Offutt, the Lori & David Scott Foundation, the Dr. C.C. & Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation, the Gilbert M. & Martha H. Hitchcock Foundation, The Durham Society, Kathi & Louie Rotella, Jr. RBC Wealth Management, Omaha Athletics and the Omaha Lancers. Media support is provided by KETV.