Busch Stadium also will host a game between Blues and Blackhawks alumni on Dec. 31. Hockey Hall of Fame members Brett Hull, Bernie Federko, Al MacInnis and Chris Pronger were announced as participants by Blues president and CEO Chris Zimmerman.
Also on New Year's Eve, Kid Rock will perform at Scottrade Center.
"I know St. Louis has been pining for an outdoor game, well deserved," said retired NHL forward Jamal Mayers, who played 10 seasons with the Blues. "I think it will be exciting for the entire St. Louis region. To think about how well both teams have been on the cusp of winning Stanley Cups in recent years, it kind of heightens that excitement.
"Anytime teams play in the playoffs, it kind of heightens that excitement even more. This is one of the few times that the game kind of pauses and the whole hockey world is watching. I know both sides will be excited to play this game."
Commissioner Bettman said in conjunction with the Blues' 50th anniversary and the Blackhawks' national appeal, it made for a natural fit to pit the two Central Division rivals against one another. Blackhawks CEO John McDonough said a third Winter Classic participation is "a dream. What an opportunity for both of these franchises to rise to yet another level.
"In 2009, our season-ticket base after that announcement went from 3,400 to 14,000," McDonough said. "That was a bit of an indication our franchise was on the way back. Everybody that is here today and in the viewing audience, on Jan. 2, you're going to experience something very, very special. It's an honor to play in this event."