Banner night on tap for Blackhawks

The biggest question heading into tonight's pregame celebration of the Blackhawks' championship season is when the United Center workers bring out the Stanley Cup banner, will announcer Pat Foley give us one last “Banner Men! call?

OK, that isn't the biggest question, but it's one of many.

Questions like who exactly will be on hand? Who will help raise the Stanley Cup banner? Can the UC handle the bedlam sure to erupt when the Stanley Cup makes one last appearance?

Little is known about the planned festivities prior to the 7:30 p.m. puck drop with heated rival Detroit.

What we do know about tonight's celebration is that it will begin with Hawks players arriving via limousine on Madison Street in front of Gate 3 at 5 p.m. and making their way down a red carpet and into the UC. The event is free and will also feature appearances by Blackhawks alumni, executives and broadcasters.

Parking lots around the United Center will open at 4 p.m., while gates will open for the home opener at 5:30 p.m. Madison, between Damen and Wood, will be closed from 4-6 p.m. to accommodate the event.

Once inside, though, it's anyone's guess. Although it's fair to assume Hawks legends like Stan Mikita, Bobby Hull, Tony Esposito and Denis Savard will be on hand to participate.

Other probables tonight include some words of gratitude from chairman Rocky Wirtz, an entertaining video recap of last season's magical run to the Cup, music galore, and, of course, the omnipresent air horn.

When the Pittsburgh Penguins celebrated their 2008-09 Cup win, the ceremony lasted approximately 25 minutes.

For those unable to make it to the United Center tonight, Comcast SportsNet and CSNChicago.com will carry the banner-raising ceremony live with coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m.