[category]
[title]
Thanks to its earnest portrayal of queer love and longing (not to mention that now-legendary Wolf Parade needle drop), the hockey drama Heated Rivalry has become a bona fide cultural sensation. What began as a story about rivals on the ice has grown into something much bigger, inspiring feverish Reddit threads, heaps of bootleg merch and some truly inspired community events.
Whether you’re a Shane or an Ilya—or still arguing about which one you’re supposed to be—these events offer a rare chance to connect with other Heated Rivalry fans who share your devotion to the game, the drama and, of course, the big feels.
Your guide to Heated Rivalry events blazing through Chicago
Heated RivalRave
House of Blues, 329 N Dearborn St
Jan 23 at 5pm and 10:15pm
Nineties-themed promoter Club 90s is giving rave culture the Heated Rivalry treatment with Heated RivalRave, a night that cranks the energy all the way up. Expect a bumping, era-appropriate playlist, bold costumes and an atmosphere that leans hard into nostalgia and #Hollanov fiending. Whether you come dressed for the rink, the rave or something gloriously in between, this is a space to dance it out with fellow fans who know their beats as well as their hockey lore.
Trivia Tuesday: Heated Rivalry Edition
Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St
Jan 27 at 8pm
Put your Heated Rivalry knowledge to the test at this special Sidetrack Trivia Tuesday takeover. From deep-cut moments to blink-and-you’ll-miss-it details, the questions will separate the casual viewers from the truly devoted. Bring your sharpest teammates (or fly solo and make new ones) for a chance to win big. The grand prize includes gift cards to Men’s Room and SWAY, plus the satisfaction of knowing you really did remember that one scene correctly. Bragging rights, naturally, are included.
Heated Rivalry Trivia Night
Snakes & Lattes, 1965 N Milwaukee Ave
Feb 3 at 7pm
Head to Snakes & Lattes Chicago for Heated Rivalry Trivia Night, a true showdown for fans who remember what sandwich Ilya offered to make Shane and the design on Scott’s novelty socks. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams, with teams of up to six players eligible to compete. When trivia wraps, competitors are welcome to stay, grab a drink and keep the fun going with board games—and yes, themed cocktails will be flowing all night. May the best team win.
IRL: Heated Rivalry Singles Mixer
Dorothy, 2500 W Chicago Ave
Feb 9 at 6pm
IRL is Dorothy’s monthly singles mixer—usually no frills, no fuss—but to kick off Valentine’s week, the lesbian cocktail lounge is turning up the heat Heated Rivalry-style. For this special February 9 edition, guests will choose Shane or Ilya upon entry, with oversized character heads available for the first 100 guests. From there, it’s up to you to find your counterpart on the dance floor, at the bar or mid-conversation about your favorite scene. Costumes are highly encouraged.
Heated Rivalry Rave
Chop Shop, 2033 W North Ave
Feb 28 at 9pm
Are you Team Hollander or Team Rozanov? Make your pick at this full-throttle dance party dedicated to romance, hockey and every steamy Heated Rivalry scene you can handle. Come dressed in your Montreal Metros gear, Boston Raiders colors or your best hockey-inspired look and get ready for a night to remember.