With just two days until the start of the 2026 Arctic Winter Games, the Government of Canada is highlighting its $2,665,000 investment in the Games and the lasting impact this support is having on sport infrastructure, culture and community development in Yukon.
Today, Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament (Yukon), on behalf of the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport), visited facilities that have benefited from federal funding provided through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. This investment has supported upgrades and preparations that will help ensure athletes, coaches and officials have access to high-quality venues as they gather in Whitehorse for this major international multisport event.
The first Arctic Winter Games were held in 1970 in Yellowknife. For more than 55 years, the Games have brought together athletes from across the circumpolar world, strengthening connections among Northern communities and celebrating Arctic cultures.
Hosted in Whitehorse from March 8 to 15, 2026, the 2026 Arctic Winter Games will welcome participants from five Canadian regions (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Northern Alberta, Nunavut and Nunavik), as well as Alaska (United States), Greenland and the Sápmi region (Finland, Sweden and Norway).
Beyond the excitement of competition, the Games are expected to generate lasting benefits for the community, including increased economic activity, volunteer development and enhanced community pride.
