Huntsville, get ready for an Ontario 55+ Winter Games three-peat.
Explore Huntsville, on behalf of the Huntsville Municipal Accommodation Tax Association, is excited to announce that it has been selected as host for the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games, an event that will generate more than $1.5 million in economic benefits for Huntsville and area. It will be the third time that Huntsville has played host to the Games, following successful events in 2013 and 2019.
The Ontario government is investing $325,000 to support the Games. Ontario Minister of Sport Neil Lumsden expressed confidence that Huntsville will once again “host a Games to remember,” adding that the Games are “a great example of our government’s work to maximize the economic impact of sport tourism in Ontario while encouraging older adults to lead healthier, more active lives.”
Explore Huntsville’s Executive Director Kelly Haywood is thrilled to bring this prestigious sporting event to Huntsville.
“Part of our mandate is to stimulate Huntsville’s visitor economy and this event ticks every box,” said Haywood. “Not only are we excited to showcase everything Huntsville has to offer and create an incredible experience for the Games participants, this event will fill local accommodations to capacity and generate local economic activity in our stores and restaurants during the typically slower month of February.”
The Games will be held from February 3-5, 2026, with the 1,000-plus participants engaging in 10 different outdoor and indoor sports and activities, including alpine skiing at Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, curling at the Huntsville Curling Club, hockey at the Canada Summit Centre, Nordic skiing at Arrowhead Provincial Park and prediction skating at Lake of Bays Arena. Other indoor events include duplicate bridge and table tennis at Deerhurst Resort, volleyball at Huntsville High School, badminton at Riverside Public School and 10-pin bowling at Barrie Bowlerama.
Games General Manager Myke Malone noted that in addition to providing an exceptional atmosphere for the participants to compete, Explore Huntsville is pleased that the event also offers Huntsville a lasting legacy. “The 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games will establish a dedicated fund to enhance programming in Huntsville for people over the age of 55, which will offer a wide range of activities for our older residents and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive community,” he said.
“I’m thrilled to see the Ontario 55+ Winter Games return to Huntsville. The committee and volunteers put on an excellent event in 2019 and I’m glad to see that our government recognizes that effort by bringing it back in 2026.” says Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka
“The Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA) is excited to hear that Huntsville will be hosting the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games! These games are all about connection, community, and celebrating the incredible spirit of our senior athletes. With Huntsville’s stunning winter backdrop and welcoming atmosphere, we know this event will be something truly special. The Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA) supports and encourages the 55+ community to participant in the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games for an unforgettable experience filled with camaraderie, competition, and cherished memories,” adds Daria Thompson, President of the Ontario Senior Games Association.
“I would like to congratulate the Town of Huntsville for its successful bid to host the Ontario 55+ Winter Games. But, most importantly, I am looking forward to seeing all seniors and older adults compete, remain active and continue to stay healthy by participating in their sports and this great event,” says Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility
The Ontario 55+ Winter Games occur every two years and are delivered by the Ministry of Sport, in partnership with the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA). Participants of the Ontario 55+ Winter Games can also go on to represent Ontario at the next Canada 55+ Games.