For the first time in seven years, the Blackhawks will open the regular season on home ice.

The Hawks will play the Columbus Blue Jackets on Oct. 13 at the United Center to kick off their 85th season in franchise history. The NHL released complete schedules for every team Thursday as part of a busy couple of weeks that includes the entry draft Friday and Saturday and the start of free agent signings July 1.

Once again, the Hawks' schedule is packed with weekend home games. Twenty-four of the team's 41 games at the United Center will take place on weekends, including nine on Fridays, three on Saturdays and 12 on Sundays. A seven-game homestand from Feb. 15 to March 1 will equal the longest homestand in franchise history.