It’s 100 days away from the Huntsville 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games
Huntsville, Ontario is no stranger to winter “at its best” so it’s no wonder it was selected to host the prestigious 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games.
From February 3-5, 2026, more than 1,000 participants aged 55 and older from across Ontario will converge on the town to compete in 14 different events at 14 venues throughout Huntsville and the surrounding region.
A kick-off event on October 27, 2025, at the Canada Summit Centre marked the beginning of the community’s countdown to the Games. The event brought together municipal and provincial officials, organizers, community partners and members of the public for speeches, photos, and interviews.
Background:
Huntsville was thrilled to be successful in the competitive bid process to host the Games. The Ontario 55+ Games are held every year, alternating between summer and winter, and exemplify a strong partnership between the Province of Ontario through the Ministry of Sport and the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA). The total funding provided by the Ministry of Sport for these Games is $325,000.
The Ontario 55+ Games were last held in Huntsville in 2019 and hosted by the Town of Huntsville. In 2026 the “bid baton” was picked up by the Huntsville Municipal Accommodation Tax Association (HMATA), a separate non-profit entity which administers the tax collected on all short-term rentals. HMATA exists with one sole mandate: to support year-round tourism. When the opportunity arose to bid on the Ontario 55+ Winter Games again, Executive Director Kelly Haywood recognized the economic impact it would bring to the town.
The community checked all the boxes, featuring competitive sports venues, a wide variety of accommodation, superb hospitality, and a solid volunteer base. The Games require over 300 people to volunteer their time and efforts, and Huntsville is known for their spirit of volunteerism.
The 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games are guided by a dedicated Games Organizing Committee (GOC) Comprised of passionate community leaders and volunteers, while working closely with Ministry staff. The GOC plays a key role in shaping the Games and creating a welcoming experience for participants and spectators from across Ontario.
Event Schedule:
Tuesday, February 3, 2026: Accreditation pickup for athletes followed by a Celebrity Skate Show to kick off the Opening Ceremony featuring 4 time World Champion, Kurt Browning.
Wednesday, February 4, 2026: Day 1 of competition and Middle Night social event featuring local restaurants and entertainment.
Thursday, February 5: Day 2 of competition and medal ceremonies conclude the event.
Participation Details:
To participate in the Games, athletes must be 55+ and be an active member of the OSGA. Many sports require athletes to qualify in their own region, and when they win District “GOLD” they earn the right to compete provincially here in Huntsville.
Qualifying sports include Men’s Hockey, Women’s Hockey, Curling, Volleyball, Badminton and Table Tennis.
Other sports include Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing, Stick Curling, Contract Bridge, Duplicate Bridge, and Prediction Skating.
Demonstration sports include Snowshoeing, Fat Biking and Figure Skating.
“I’m thrilled to see the Ontario 55+ Winter Games return to Huntsville. The committee and volunteers put on an excellent event in 2019 and I’m glad to see the Ministry of Sport recognizing that effort by bringing it back in 2026. The countdown is on, and we are all anticipating another well-run event with a showcase of great athletes from across the province,” says Graydon Smith, MPP – Parry Sound-Muskoka.
Volunteer Opportunities: The success of the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games relies heavily on the dedication of volunteers. Over 300 volunteers are expected to contribute to various aspects of the event, from coordination and participant services to transportation and logistics. Residents interested in volunteering can find more information and sign up at www.huntsville2026.ca
“The Ontario 55+ Winter Games are a great example of how sport can bring communities together, promote healthy living and celebrate the incredible spirit of older adults across our province,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “I’m thrilled to see Huntsville once again take the lead in hosting this inspiring event. Our government is proud to support these Games, which not only showcase the power of sport but also provide an opportunity to welcome visitors from across Ontario, boost the local economy and drive domestic tourism to this beautiful region,” says Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport.
“I am thrilled to see our community come together in support of the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games. Muskoka is ready to welcome athletes and visitors with the warmth and pride that define our region. I know these Games will leave a lasting mark and show what makes Muskoka such a special place to call home. Thank you to everyone helping bring this incredible event to life. The countdown to February 2026 is officially on!” says Scott Aitchison, MP – Parry Sound-Muskoka, Shadow Minister for Housing.
“The Ontario 55+ Winter Games are fast approaching, and we look forward to welcoming the athletes, spectators, and event organizers this February. We are well-known as cottage country in the summer, and we are excited to share the natural beauty and vibrant culture Huntsville has to offer in the winter as a year-round destination, – we are thankful to host this event for the third time, knowing the incredible impact this will have for our local businesses,” concludes Nancy Alcock, Mayor of Huntsville.
By Matthew Sitler, Bayshore Broadcasting News Centre
