The torch is lit and the Lakeland is ready. More than 2,400 athletes, coaches and officials are in the region as the 2026 Alberta Winter Games officially get underway.

From February 13 to 16, communities across Cold Lake, Bonnyville and Glendon will host three days of high-level competition featuring Alberta’s top young athletes.

A Stepping Stone for Future Champions

For more than 50 years, the Alberta Games have built community spirit and launched athletic careers. Over 50 alumni have gone on to compete at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

This year, more than 1,700 athletes aged 11 to 16 earned their spots through zone trials held across the province. They will compete in 18 sports including hockey, curling, speed skating and volleyball.

“It’s an incredible honour to represent Zone 7 and play for my home community at the Alberta Winter Games,” said Ezrik Sundt, a volleyball player and Zone 7 banner carrier. “Competing at such a big event alongside so many talented athletes from across Alberta is really exciting.”

About 600 coaches and technical officials are also taking part, supported by an estimated 1,500 volunteers helping bring the Games to life.

A Major Boost for Rural Alberta

Beyond the medals and memories, the Games are expected to deliver an estimated $3 million in direct economic impact to the Lakeland region.

Hotels, restaurants, shops and local businesses are welcoming teams and families from across Alberta. The event is being supported by the Government of Alberta in partnership with the City of Cold Lake, M.D. of Bonnyville, Town of Bonnyville and Village of Glendon.

The province has provided $1,275,000 to the local host society to support operations, transportation, food services, venues and promotions.

“Congratulations and good luck to every athlete competing at the 2026 Alberta Winter Games,” said Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport. “We are proud to support an event that inspires future champions and showcases the incredible talent, determination and spirit of young Albertans.”

Craig Copeland, chair of the Lakeland Region 2026 Alberta Winter Games Host Society, said the four host municipalities are proud to showcase their facilities and community spirit.

“We hope to provide a great environment for the athletes as they compete at this high level of competition,” he said.

Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul, added: “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.”

Opening Ceremonies Set the Stage

The Opening Ceremonies take place February 13 at the Cold Lake Energy Centre, where athletes, coaches and fans will gather for the lighting of the cauldron and the official start of the Games.

For many young competitors, this weekend is more than just a tournament. It is the beginning of something bigger.

Keep it on Lakeland Connect for live coverage of Zone 7 athletes throughout the Games, made possible thanks to Xtreme Oilfield and Tim Hortons Bonnyville.

And for the Lakeland, it is a chance to show the rest of Alberta what small-town pride looks like on a big stage.