IN PHOTOS: Playoff fever sweeps Montreal ahead of Canadiens-Hurricanes Game 3

Long before the opening faceoff of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final, playoff energy had already taken over downtown Montreal.

Crowds in Canadiens jerseys filled the streets surrounding the Bell Centre on Monday afternoon as fans gathered for outdoor festivities ahead of the Canadiens’ showdown with the Carolina Hurricanes.

Outside the arena, Canadiens Plaza was already drawing steady crowds for the club’s pregame Fan Jam festivities, which began at 5 p.m.

Inside the Bell Centre, commemorative playoff rally towels were placed on every seat ahead of the 8 p.m. puck drop as Montreal prepared to host its first Eastern Conference Final game of the series.

The Canadiens return home with the series tied 1-1 after splitting the opening two games in Carolina.

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Fire station becomes gathering point for fans

A few steps from the Bell Centre, Montreal Fire Station 25 on Drummond Street became part of the playoff scene.

The station welcomed fans beginning two hours before the game, with firefighters serving 200 hot dogs while collecting donations for the Fondation des grands brûlés, which supports burn victims.

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Playoff fever grips downtown Montreal

The city’s playoff atmosphere continued to build as the afternoon progressed, with restaurants, patios and nearby streets steadily filling ahead of game time.

The Canadiens’ outdoor watch party is expected to draw large crowds throughout the evening, offering free access to fans on a first-come, first-served basis.

Inside the Bell Centre, the PWHL’s Victoire de Montréal — fresh off its Walter Cup championship — is scheduled to be honoured during the first period following last week’s title win.