Huntsville has started the 100-day countdown to celebrate the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games from February 3 to 6.
A celebration was held yesterday (Oct. 27) at the Summit Centre, where the mayor, town representatives, and business owners officially started the countdown for the games.
“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,” says Huntsville Mayor Nancy Alcock.
Councillor Scott Morrison says 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.
“If this goes the way, I think it should. There’d be a bit of a $1.5 million economic spinoff in our community, says Morrison.
According to officials, the town also received $325,000 in funding from the Ministry of Sport to host the games.
“Our government is proud to support these games, which not only showcase the power of sport, but also provide the 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.
Officials say the Winter Games serve as a reminder that age is not a barrier and are an example of how older Canadians are redefining retirement and ageing.
“The countdown is on, and we are all anticipating another well-run event with a showcase of great athletes from across the province,” says Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP Graydon Smith.
This will be the third time the town hosts the events, following previous years in 2013 and 2019.
