There are few things that compare to the bond fans have with their favorite sports teams and lifelong Caps fan Eric Stevens, which is especially true.

He was born just two days after Washington played its first game as an NHL franchise, and the rest is history.

The two are now celebrating their big 5-0.

Eric shared his love for the Capitals with his children, and his daughter Raya had a fun idea to reach out to the team to plan a 50th birthday surprise for her father.

Everything snowballed from there.

The entire Stevens family was invited to the home opening to get the full experience.

“It’s my 50th year and there’s no place I’d rather be at the opening game of my 50th year,” Eric said.

She had the opportunity to join Rock newcomer Jakob Chychrun as an escort on the red carpet.

“I turned around and saw Ovi walking right next to me, which doesn’t always happen,” Eric said.

After the red carpet festivities wrapped up, they headed to District E for a grand birthday dinner celebration.

The band performed at the block party and sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to Eric along with a very special cake.

Eric is a lifelong collector of sports cards, especially hockey cards, and decided to bring a few special cards with him because he thought he could get some autographs.

Some popular Caps Alums stopped by District E, and Eric took the opportunity to get his cards signed by the likes of Yvon Labre and Rod Langway.

“These are moments I will never forget,” Eric said.

Following dinner, Eric and Raya had the opportunity to experience the warm-up up close and personal in the crash booth.