For more than five decades, the Alberta Games have strengthened community spirit, created unforgettable experiences, and have served as a stepping stone for the next generation of Alberta’s Olympians. From February 13 to16, the Lakeland region will welcome more than 2,400 athletes, coaches and technical officials from across the province as Alberta’s young athletes take part in three days of competition across 18 sports, including hockey, curling, speed skating and volleyball.
The 2026 Alberta Winter Games are being supported by Alberta’s government in partnership with the City of Cold Lake, M.D. of Bonnyville, Town of Bonnyville and Village of Glendon. Alberta’s government has provided the local host society with $1,275,000 to support operations, transportation, food services, venues and promotions for the 2026 Alberta Winter Games.
“Congratulations and good luck to every athlete competing at the 2026 Alberta Winter Games. We are proud to support an event that inspires future champions and showcases the incredible talent, determination and spirit of young Albertans. Thank you to the 2026 Host Society and 1,500 volunteers who are helping bring this event to life.”
Beyond the competition, the Alberta Winter Games are a major economic win for rural Alberta. The influx of teams, families, coaches and spectators to the Lakeland region is expected to generate an estimated $3 million in direct economic impact for the host communities. As friends, family and fans shop, dine and stay locally, the Games will help support small businesses across the region.
“The four municipalities that make up the Lakeland Winter Games are thrilled to host the 2026 Alberta Winter Games and welcome all the athletes, coaches and family members to our region. We are proud to showcase the recreational facilities we have, and all of us with the committee and the volunteers who have come forward to help hope to provide a great environment for the athletes as they compete at this high level of competition.”
“Alberta’s Lakeland is ready! Hosting the Alberta Winter Games is a tremendous opportunity to bring people together, support our local economy and celebrate the dedication of young athletes from every corner of the province. We can’t wait to cheer them on and showcase the very best of our region.”
The Opening Ceremonies will take place on Feb. 13 at the Cold Lake Energy Centre, where athletes, coaches and fans will gather to celebrate the official start of the Games and the lighting of the cauldron. For many, the Alberta Games are the first step in a lifelong sport journey, with more than 50 Alberta Games alumni having gone on to compete at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“It’s an incredible honor to represent Zone 7 and play for my home community at the Alberta Winter Games. Competing at such a big event alongside so many talented athletes from across Alberta is really exciting. Training and playing with my great teammates and an awesome coach makes the experience even more meaningful and something I’m really proud to be part of.”
Quick facts
- The Alberta Games are a biennial multisport event for amateur Alberta athletes aged 11 to 16.
- The first Alberta Winter Games were held in 1976 in Banff.
- More than 1,700 athletes will compete in the 2026 Alberta Winter Games after qualifying through zone trials held across Alberta.
- About 600 coaches and technical officials will be part of the Games.
- An estimated 1,500 volunteers will be supporting the Games.