Strathcona County has a successful history of hosting the Alberta Games, having hosted the 1987 Alberta Summer Games and 2000 Alberta Winter Games. The Games have proven to bolster local economies, with the 2023 Summer Games bringing in just under 10,000 visitors and providing an economic benefit of nearly $9.5 million for the host Okotoks and Diamond Valley.
Alberta’s government will provide an $820,000 operating grant to the host society to support the 2026 Alberta Summer Games. The grant will help cover operating costs such as staffing, transportation and promotions.
“The Alberta Summer Games is more than a competition between the best athletes in our province. For host communities, they leave a legacy of enhanced infrastructure, trained volunteers and tourism revenue. For athletes, the Games teach teamwork, build confidence and promote healthy lifestyles that can last well into adulthood.”
With the location selected, the Alberta Games planning committee can proceed with selecting the exact dates for the Games. In past years, the Alberta Summer Games have taken place over the course of four days and have included sports such as rugby 7s, beach volleyball and track and field. During the 2023 Summer Games, 1996 athletes participated in 14 sports.
Alberta athletes qualify to attend the Games through zone playoffs for their specific sport and through selections held throughout the province. Since 1998, 18 Alberta Games athletes have represented Canada at the Olympic Games.
“Strathcona County’s exceptional infrastructure, passion for sports and renowned hospitality make it a perfect fit to host the 2026 Alberta Summer Games. I look forward to welcoming Alberta’s young athletes to our community.”
“Sport is an integral part of our society and helps foster the values of hard work, dedication, teamwork and unity that we hold dear as Albertans. Strathcona County has a long and rich history as a premier host of sporting events, and I can’t wait to welcome these talented athletes from across our beautiful province.”
“We are honoured to be selected to host the 2026 Alberta Summer Games and I know that the welcoming spirit and hospitality that Strathcona County is known for will be on full display.”
“Strathcona County has a proud history of hosting provincial Games. Preparations are already underway to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for all participants and attendees.”
The Alberta Games have been a proud part of Alberta’s sport community for almost 50 years and Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring the success of the Games for years to come.
Quick facts
- Athletes who have participated in the Alberta Summer Games program and gone on to represent Canada at the Olympic and Paralympic Games include:
- Marc Kennedy, 1993 and 1995 Alberta Summer Games – 2010, 2018, 2022 Olympic Winter Games (Gold)
- Kyra Christmas, 2008 and 2010 Alberta Summer Games – 2021 Tokyo Olympics
- Allison Beveridge, 2006 Alberta Summer Games – 2021 Tokyo Olympics, 2016 Rio Olympics (Bronze)
- Sage Watson, 2010 Alberta Summer Games – 2021 Tokyo Olympics, 2016 Rio Olympics
- Morgan Bird, 2006 Alberta Summer Games – 2012, 2016 and 2021 Paralympics
- Stefan Daniel, 2012 Alberta Summer Games – 2016, 2021 Paralympics (Silver and Bronze)