Cup spends time with Kings fans

From Slovenia to Sylvan Lake, from Voskresensk to Vegas, the Stanley Cup spent the past few weeks in Europe and North America before returning to Los Angeles this week for a series of events that will allow many of the team's biggest fans to enjoy some time with the iconic trophy.

It started with the Kings' premium seating event Tuesday, when some of the team's season-ticket holders were let into Staples Center to select the seats from where they will watch the defending champions play next season. The day would have been momentous enough, but an appearance by the Cup made it an event few people involved likely will ever forget.

It was a precursor to an alumni event Wednesday at a venue that has become a popular stomping ground for Kings fans in Southern California.

That's when the Cup is scheduled to make an appearance between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. local time for a charity event at the Redondo Beach Café. With several Kings alumni scheduled to attend, including Nelson Emerson, Jim Fox, and Daryl Evans, the Stanley Cup will serve as the guest of honor at the fundraiser for the Kings Care Foundation. For $10, guests will have the opportunity to have their photograph taken with the Cup.

A popular location for Kings viewing parties during the team's run to the Cup, the Redondo Beach Café has become the region's go-to alternate venue for hockey fans. Adorned with autographed jerseys and photos, the restaurant was founded by a pair of brothers from Montreal and showcases a variety of Kings-themed items on the menu, including Penne Lombardi, named after general manager Dean Lombardi.

The Stanley Cup will be traveling Thursday before arriving in Stamford, Conn., on Friday to spend the day with Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Quick.