In just a few months, “Heated Rivalry” has grown from a buzzy streaming series into one of the most communal fandoms unfolding in real time.
“Heated Rivalry” first debuted on the Canadian streaming platform Crave, where it built early momentum through word of mouth before being picked up by HBO Max for wider international distribution. That jump introduced the hockey romance to a much larger audience and almost immediately, the series took on a life of its own, spreading rapidly across social media and fan spaces.
Centered on the complicated, long-running relationship between rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, “Heated Rivalry” blends sports drama with an emotionally grounded love story that has resonated deeply with viewers, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community and romance fandoms.
As clips, quotes, and reaction videos continue to circulate on TikTok and Instagram, fans have increasingly sought out ways to experience the show together rather than alone. The result has been a surge of community-driven events that have transformed a once-indie series into a shared cultural moment.
Here’s where “Heated Rivalry” fans can gather across Southern California to watch, dance, laugh, and celebrate the show beyond the screen.
Lanternpins Cupsleeve Event
Fans can gather for a midday celebration that blends bookish fandom with cozy cafe culture at this themed cupsleeve event hosted by Lanternpins and Euphoria Blankets. Designed as a casual, walk-in friendly hang, the event invites attendees to grab a drink, browse pop-culture and book-inspired vendors, and collect exclusive “Heated Rivalry” goodies while supplies last. Free walk-in inclusions are available with any menu purchase, while optional tiered add-ons offer additional collectibles like photocards, magnets, bookmarks, and character-themed bag charms.
When: Saturday, Feb. 7, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Lucky Tea Co., 324 N. Azusa Ave., West Covina
Tickets: Free to attend; walk-in inclusions with menu purchase, optional $10 and $20 tiers available while supplies last. lanternpins.com.
Gorgeous Gorgeous Party
Taking “Heated Rivalry” off the screen and straight to the dance floor, this Valentine’s-themed pop party leans fully into the romance, chaos, and intensity that fans love about the series. Hosted by Gorgeous Gorgeous Party, the night invites queer and trans fans to celebrate fandom through music, movement, and unapologetic joy. DJs spin high-energy pop anthems throughout the night, creating a space where “Heated Rivalry” references meet sweaty dance floors and Valentine’s flirtation.
When: Thursday, Feb. 13, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: Los Globos, 3040 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles
Tickets: Available online; early ticket batches offered at a discounted rate at dice.fm.com.
Night at the Rink: Heated Rivalry Edition
Bookish fandom met live hockey action at this “Heated Rivalry”-inspired night out hosted by Page 78 Bookstore in partnership with the Ontario Reign. The event invites fans to experience a professional hockey game from a private suite, blending real-life rink energy with the communal excitement of the show. Ticket holders will gather to watch the game together, connect with fellow readers, and enjoy catered food, drinks, and exclusive merchandise in a VIP lounge setting.
When: Sunday, Feb. 1, 2:30 p.m. arrival for the suite
Where: Toyota Arena, 4000 Ontario Center, Ontario
Tickets: $95 at page78.com.
Watch Parties at Gym Bar WeHo
For folks who have yet to watch “Heated Rivalry” — or aren’t ready to let it go — this recurring watch party brings the series back to the big screen in true communal fashion. Hosted at Gym Bar WeHo, the weekly gathering invites viewers to rewatch episodes together while leaning into the drama. Each screening is paired with themed food and drink specials, including tuna melts and custom cocktails inspired by the series. With episodes shown in order, the event offers fans a chance to relive key moments, react in real time, and experience the story surrounded by other diehard fans.
When: Thursdays at 8 p.m. (through Feb. 12)
Where: Gym Bar WeHo, 8919 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood
Tickets: Free to attend; food and drinks available for purchase
Heated Rivalry Comedy Night
Those looking to experience “Heated Rivalry” through a comedic lens can catch this stand-up showcase inspired by the “mental psychosis” fans are going through as they finish the series. Hosted at Westside Comedy Theater, the show leans into shared fandom, inside jokes, and the collective experience of loving something a little too much, creating a space where laughter and community take center stage. Open to audiences 21 and over, the night offers a lighter, playful way for fans to connect outside of watch parties or dance floors.
When: Thursday, Jan. 29, 10 p.m.
Where: Westside Comedy Theater, 1323-A 3rd St., Santa Monica
Tickets: $20.69 at Eventbrite.com.
Re-Heated! A Heated Rivalry Rewatch Party
This rewatch series turns “Heated Rivalry” into a conversation-driven night out, inviting fans to slow things down and actually talk through the moments that linger long after the episode ends. Hosted by comedian Zach Noe Towers at Fan Girl Cafe, the weekly gathering blends live episode screenings with real-time commentary, fan discussions, and surprise guest appearances. Each event centers on a specific episode, creating space for shared reactions, hot takes, and thoughtful debate, all in an intimate setting. Themed food and drinks will also be available before and after the show.
When: Mondays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. (through late February; excluding Feb. 2)
Where: Fan Girl Cafe, 8157 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite A, West Hollywood
Tickets: $10 at Eventbrite.com.
Club 90’s: Heated Rivalry
What began as a fandom-driven dance night has quickly grown into a traveling party phenomenon, with Heated Rival Rave drawing sold-out crowds across the country and gaining widespread traction on TikTok. Presented by Club 90s LA, the event translates the series into a full-scale club experience, pairing DJ-led pop sets with oversized screens looping memorable scenes and clips from the show behind the booth. As stops continue to pop up nationwide and videos from past nights circulate online, the party has emerged as one of the clearest examples of the megahit’s expansion beyond the screen.
When: 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13
Where: House of Blues Anaheim, 400 Disney Way #337, Anaheim
Tickets: Tickets are officially sold-out, with verified resale tickets available at Ticketmaster.com.