The Ontario 55+ Winter Games Kick Off with Packed Opening Ceremonies in Huntsville last night at the Canada Summit Centre with a packed audience and an unforgettable celebration of sport, community, and active living.
The Opening Ceremonies, sponsored by HomeEquity Bank, featured a crowd‑pleasing Celebrity Skate Show led by four‑time World Figure Skating Champion Kurt Browning and two‑time U.S. Champion Alissa Czisny. The energy in the arena set the stage for three days of spirited competition and community pride.
Today, over 1,000 athletes from across Ontario will begin 2 days of competition in 11 winter sports across 14 venues throughout Muskoka, supported by an extraordinary team of more than 300 local volunteers whose dedication continues to be the backbone of these Games.
For up to the minute schedules and standing please check the website https://www.huntsville2026.ca/2026-ontario-55-winter-games
Tonight, Huntsville will host the Lanterns and Ice Watch Party, in River Mill Park, open to the entire community to join in the celebration and welcome visiting participants to the Ontario 55+Winter Games.
“Last night’s turnout shows how deeply Ontarians value sport, inclusion, and active aging,” said Leslie Hutcheson, General Manager of the Games. “We are thrilled to welcome athletes, coaches, and spectators to Huntsville as we showcase the best of Muskoka’s hospitality and winter spirit.”
“Ontario is proud to welcome athletes and volunteers to Huntsville for the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games. This event celebrates the unifying power of sport to keep people healthy, active and connected, while highlighting the importance of lifelong participation in sport and recreation. Our government is proud to support Huntsville in delivering an exceptional multi-sport experience that drives local economic growth and reinforces Ontario’s reputation as a leading destination for world-class events,” says Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport.
What’s Happening Today – Wednesday, February 4
Day 1 of Competition
Events are underway across all 11 sports, including:
– Alpine Skiing (Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area)
– Nordic Skiing (Arrowhead Provincial Park)
– Hockey across multiple Huntsville-area rinks
– Badminton, Curling, Duplicate Bridge, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Stick Curling, and more
Middle Night Celebration – Downtown Huntsville (6:00–9:00 p.m.)
Tonight’s signature Middle Night event invites athletes and coaches to experience downtown Huntsville’s restaurants, live music, and community hospitality. Shuttle service begins at 5 p.m. for all participating hotels.
This celebration is also a great opportunity for the broader community to take part and meet athletes from across the province.
Coming Up Tomorrow – Thursday, February 5
Day 2 of Competition & Medal Ceremonies
Final events continue across the region across all events. Official medal presentations will take place throughout the day at the competition venues recognizing outstanding athletic excellence.
Forest of Lights Experience – Sandhill Nursery
Participants staying through Thursday evening will receive complimentary access to the immersive Forest of Lights — an illuminated winter trail experience unique to Muskoka.
300 Volunteers Powering the Games
The success of the 2026 Games is made possible by over 300 volunteers. Their commitment spans everything from event logistics and venue management to timekeeping, greeters, food service, medical support, and hospitality — forming the backbone of an entirely volunteer‑driven Games operation.
About the Ontario 55+ Winter Games
The Ontario 55+ Winter Games promote active living, community engagement, and friendly competition for adults aged 55 and older. The 2026 Games are delivered in partnership with the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA) and the Province of Ontario, with major support from the Huntsville Municipal Accommodation Tax Association (HMATA).