City of Whitehorse, AWGIC, and Host Society sign hosting agreement

Joint press release on behalf of the City of Whitehorse, the Arctic Winter Games International Committee, and the 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society. 

The City of Whitehorse, Arctic Winter Games International Committee, and the 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society have signed the hosting agreement to bring the 2026 Arctic Winter Games to Whitehorse.

The Host Society can now begin planning a games that celebrates sport, showcases our community culture, and brings together passionate athletes from across the North. These games will also give athletes a chance to test themselves on an international stage and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The agreement provides the framework around how the games should be organized including funding, legacy initiatives, social activities for participating athletes, as well as the games themselves from the opening ceremony to the closing ceremony.

This hosting agreement also outlines requirements for the Host Society’s board in order to support the successful delivery of the 2026 Arctic Winter Games.

A launch event is now being planned where community members can start to get involved in shaping what will be a world-class event in a world-class sporting community.

Quotes:

“We are so excited to be the host city for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games. Throughout the games, thousands of athletes, delegates, and fans will have an opportunity to explore our city’s incredible trails, our various food and beverage businesses, and explore the hundreds of unique tourism, culture, and adventure opportunities only a stone’s throw from their accommodations. Today’s announcement is a major milestone on our way to 2026 and we look forward to bringing these games to life in the coming years.”

Laura Cabott
Mayor of Whitehorse

“I’m very happy to get the planning and preparation for the 2026 Games underway. Getting a core team together of board members and staff will help us solidify our values and goals and to start building relationships within the community. A lot of hard work went into the 2020 Games and we want to re-engage those partners and that experience as much as possible. Our ultimate goal is to create a sustainable model for the Games now and in future, while still delivering an incredible experience for everyone involved and celebrating everything the Yukon has to offer.”

Tracey Bilsky
Host Society President

“We are extremely pleased to be returning to Whitehorse for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games. We are grateful to the City for their enthusiasm and dedication to creating an unforgettable experience for participants, volunteers, and everyone involved. Together, we embark on a journey that will not only celebrate athletic excellence but also showcase the warmth and hospitality for which the Yukon is renowned. We eagerly anticipate the extraordinary moments that await us in 2026.”

John Rodda
AWGIC President