The 2026 Alberta Winter Games have officially wrapped in the Lakeland Region, closing a weekend defined by electric energy, community pride, and exceptional athletic achievement.

From the moment the torch was lit on opening day to the final presentation of the Alberta Cup, one theme remained constant: this was a Games powered by community and inspired by youth.

---

A Powerful Opening: Setting the Tone

Opening Ceremonies set the stage for what would become a memorable weekend across the region.

Games Manager Violet Lapointe welcomed athletes, coaches, officials, and families with a message centered on opportunity — reminding participants that the Alberta Winter Games are about more than medals. They are about growth, friendships, and the experience of representing your zone on a provincial stage.

Games Chair Craig Copeland spoke to the magnitude of the moment, acknowledging the years of preparation that brought the Games to life in the Lakeland Region. He highlighted the collaboration between municipalities, volunteers, sponsors, and sport organizations that made hosting possible.

The pride of the host communities was echoed by Mayor of Cold Lake Bob Mattice, who welcomed visitors to the region and emphasized the lasting legacy events like the Alberta Winter Games leave behind — not only in facilities and economic impact, but in the memories created for young athletes.

Together, their remarks established the spirit of the weekend: celebration, competition, and connection.

Competition Across the Lakeland

Over the course of the Games, athletes from across Alberta competed with determination and sportsmanship in venues throughout the region. Arenas, gyms, and facilities were filled with cheering families, dedicated volunteers, and communities rallying behind the province’s next generation of athletes.

The atmosphere extended beyond competition — restaurants, hotels, and local businesses welcomed an influx of visitors, showcasing the Lakeland Region’s hospitality and reinforcing the economic and social impact of hosting a provincial multi-sport event.

---

Recognizing Excellence and Spirit

As the Games came to a close, the spotlight turned to recognizing not just performance, but growth and character.

During the Closing Ceremonies, Councillor Neil Langridge, Board Member for the Lakeland Region Alberta Winter Games Committee, reflected on the weekend’s energy.

“It has been incredible to feel the excitement throughout our host communities,” he said. “The energy from this weekend is still electric, though our athletes are now returning home.”

Three major awards highlighted the celebration:

Minister’s Cup – Zone 4

Awarded to the zone demonstrating the greatest improvement in medal standings since the previous Games, the Minister’s Cup recognized measurable growth and development.

“Congratulations, Zone 4 on your remarkable progress and fantastic performance,” Langridge said.

Spirit of Sport Award – Zone 2

Determined by votes from head coaches, officials, sport chairpersons, and village mayors, the Spirit of Sport Award honors fairness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

“You have set the standard for what it means to be champions beyond the scoreboard,” Langridge said in presenting the award to Zone 2.

Alberta Cup – Zone 6

The most anticipated award of the Games, the Alberta Cup recognizes the top overall zone based on medal points — three for gold, two for silver, and one for bronze.

“With gold medals worth three points, silver worth two, and bronze worth one, the winner of the Alberta Cup for the 2026 Alberta Winter Games is Zone 6.”

“What an outstanding performance, Zone 6.”

---

A Community Effort

Beyond medals and standings, organizers were quick to acknowledge the true driving force behind the Games: volunteers.

“Thank you to all of our incredible volunteers who worked behind the scenes and all weekend long, and of course, leading up to this incredible event in the Lakeland,” Langridge said.

From venue teams and food services to transportation, medical staff, and organizing committee members, hundreds contributed countless hours to deliver a seamless athlete experience.

Athletes themselves were also recognized for the passion they brought to the region.

“Your energy and dedication are what made the 2026 Alberta Winter Games such an unforgettable experience.”

A Lasting Legacy

Hosting the Alberta Winter Games is about more than a single weekend. It strengthens regional partnerships, showcases community capacity, and inspires young athletes to pursue sport at higher levels.

As the final awards were handed out and zones prepared to travel home, the message from organizers was clear: the Lakeland Region was proud to host, proud of its volunteers, and proud of every athlete who competed.

“It has been an absolute privilege to host this event. Well done everyone, and we can’t wait to see you again.”

With that, the 2026 Alberta Winter Games officially came to a close — leaving behind full arenas, proud communities, and hundreds of athletes carrying memories that will last a lifetime.