Officials announced plans Friday to honor one of Connecticut's most beloved sports teams.

Jan. 11, 2025 will mark 50 years since the Hartford Whalers took the ice for the first time.

Although the team moved to North Carolina in 1996 and have been renamed the Carolina Hurricanes, many residents still love the team.

To celebrate the milestone, a series of events will be held to honor 50 years of hockey in Hartford.

"This is a huge, gigantic celebration for all of us to have pride in not just our hometown but our home state," says Anthony Anthony, Connecticut's chief marketing officer.

Events include the world premiere of "The Whalers" documentary at Trinity College.

The film will explore the team's history, its influence and the connection the Whalers created in Hartford and throughout the state.

Following the premiere, there will be a question-and-answer event with founder Howard Baldwin.

There will also be meet and greet and autograph signing with former players at the XL Center.

Former Whalers and former Hartford Wolf Pack players will also participate in a pre-game celebration and a 50th anniversary banner will be raised ahead of the Wolf Pack game that night.

The first 1,500 fans who attend the game will receive a limited edition pin.

"The Hartford Wolf Pack is proud to be part of Connecticut's legacy as we celebrate 50 years of Hartford hockey. We are reminded of the passion and dedication of our fans and how this sport continues to bring people together, says Ben Weiss, general manager of the XL Center.