‘Heated Rivalry’ parties take over Phoenix venues

The hottest (no pun intended) show on TV right is “Heated Rivalry,” streaming on HBO Max.

For the uninitiated, “Heated Rivalry” tells the story of two professional hockey players who spend years in a secret romance. Hudson Williams plays shy Canadian Shane Hollander, while Connor Storrie portrays the brash Russian Ilya Rozanov.

The six-episode show is based on the book of the same name, the second installment in author Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” series, and was created by Crave, a Canadian streaming service. It debuted on Nov. 28, and it quickly became one of the biggest hits of 2025.

The season finale aired on Dec. 26, 2025, and since then, “Heated Rivalry” fans have had to content themselves with rewatches and horny TikTok edits. Until now.

All of a sudden, there’s a slew of “Heated Rivalry”-themed events coming up at Phoenix venues starting this Friday night. Read on to find a party to tide you over until Season 2.

‘Heated Rivalry’ Night!

Friday, Jan. 23
Club Contact, 747 W. Van Buren St.
We’re not sure what you wear for a Shane and Ilya lookalike contest — hockey uniforms or birthday suits. In any case, head to Club Contact for themed drink specials, music from the soundtrack and more. Hours are 7 to 10 p.m. Cost is $5 in advance and $10 at the door.

‘Heated Rivalry’ Night

Friday, Jan. 30
The Pemberton, 1121 N. Second St.
In downtown Phoenix, the fun starts at 6 p.m. Enjoy themed drinks, photo ops and group shots off hockey sticks before a screening of episodes five and six. Once the episodes end, the DJ takes over with the best girls, gays and theys anthems. Tickets are $35.

‘Heated Rivalry’ Special Event

Saturday, Jan. 31
Beanchain Coffee, 1110 W. Southern Ave., Mesa
And now for something a little different: a way to indulge in “Heated Rivalry” fandom during the day. Indie coffee shop Beanchain Coffee in Mesa is hosting an event that includes flash tattoos, vendors, specialty drinks, and a giveaway and other freebies while supplies last. Hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

‘Heated Rivalry’: The Party

Saturday, Jan. 31
Walter Studios, 747 W. Roosevelt St.
“Heated Rivalry” and drag are a match made in heaven. Espressa Grande is the hostess for this theme party that includes performances by drag queens, costume contests, sing-alongs, drinks and music. Hours are 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tickets are currently $33.06 but will go up closer to the event date.

Heated Rivalrave

Saturday, Feb. 7
The Van Buren, 400 W. Van Buren St.
Relive the greatest moments of “Heated Rivalry” with Club 90’s at The Van Buren. Dance to fan edits on the big screen all night with a soundtrack of queer and pop anthems. The event will also include a photobooth, giveaways and more. Heated Rivalrave starts at 8:30 p.m. and is open to people ages 18 and up. Resale tickets are available on Ticketmaster.

Cottage Chemistry: A ‘Heated Rivalry’ Dance Party

Thursday, Feb. 12
Crescent Ballroom, 302 N. Second Ave.
Come celebrate your favorite TV obsession and dance to the “Heated Rivalry” soundtrack, the hottest queer pop anthems and nostalgic alt hits all night long featuring local DJs A Claire Slattery and Trent. The fun starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20.72 at the moment but will go up before the event.

Heated Rivalrave

Friday, Feb. 13
The Van Buren, 400 W. Van Buren St.
There was so much demand for Club 90’s Heated Rivalrave at The Van Buren that they added a second show. Spend Valentine’s Eve dancing to fan edits on the big screen all night with a soundtrack of queer and pop anthems. The event will also include a photobooth, giveaways and more. Heated Rivalrave starts at 8:30 p.m. and is open to people ages 18 and up. Resale tickets are available on Ticketmaster.