Photos: 2 Million Attend Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup Rally
By Samantha Abernethy in Arts & Entertainment on Jun 28, 2013 9:30PM
Chicagoans flooded the city streets from the United Center to downtown and flocked from all points to Grant Park Friday to honor the Chicago Blackhawks on their 2013 Stanley Cup championship.
According to a statement from the Mayor Emanuel's office, "more than two million Blackhawks fans showed their passion and enthusiasm" during the festivities. Some fans lined up at the entry to the rally as early as 1 a.m. and ran like a herd of cattle to the stage set up at Hutchinson Field.
Chicago Fire Department officials say 91 people were treated for "heat issues" during the rally, 42 of whom were taken to hospitals. Police arrested a man in the Loop during the rally after a search of his backpack produced two handguns.
Blackhawks Captain Jonathan Toews told the crowd the turnout was "unbelievable."
"For the guys that were here in 2010, we didn't think there was a chance we could match that performance by the fans," Toews told the crowd, "but you guys did somehow."
The fireworks at the rally were provided by Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford, who said the word "fuck" a couple times during the live broadcast of the rally.
Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn was booed as he took the stage to officially proclaim Friday, June 28 "Blackhawks Day."