UTICA, N.Y. -- Lots of Utica Comets fans came out for their 2017 Fan Fest on Saturday.

There was music, food, face-painting, a chance to see the players, and a new Comets inflatable hockey rink.

The event also served as a grand-opening of the AUD Plaza.

Fans agreed the festival is a good way to pump everyone up.

"Their first home game was Wednesday, but it feels like the actual homecoming, you know? Really gets excited, it gets everybody ready. We've got great music going on. It's just a good time and it gets everybody in good spirits," said Comets fan Josh Brondou of West Winfield.

The Comets won against the Rochester Americans 3-2 after the Fan Fest on Saturday.