*** Written by Mauricio Prado
For the third time, Huntsville has been selected to host the Ontario 55+ Winter Games.
The event, which will take place Feb. 3-5, 2026, is being called one that will generate more than $1.5 million in economic benefits for Huntsville and area. The town hosted the events in 2013 and 2019.
The games are being supported by $325,000 from the province.
Kelly Haywood, Explore Huntsville’s Executive Director, is thrilled to bring the sporting event to Huntsville.
“Part of our mandate is to stimulate Huntsville’s visitor economy and this event ticks every box,” said Haywood. “Not only are we excited to showcase everything Huntsville has to offer and create an incredible experience for the Games participants, this event will fill local accommodations to capacity and generate local economic activity in our stores and restaurants during the typically slower month of February.”
The games will see 1,000-plus participants engaging in 10 different outdoor and indoor sports and activities, including alpine skiing at Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, curling at the Huntsville Curling Club, hockey at the Canada Summit Centre, Nordic skiing at Arrowhead Provincial Park and prediction skating at Lake of Bays Arena. Other indoor events include duplicate bridge and table tennis at Deerhurst Resort, volleyball at Huntsville High School, badminton at Riverside Public School and 10-pin bowling at Barrie Bowlerama.
Games General Manager Myke Malone noted that in addition to providing an exceptional atmosphere for the participants to compete, Explore Huntsville is pleased that the event also offers Huntsville a lasting legacy. “The 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games will establish a dedicated fund to enhance programming in Huntsville for people over the age of 55, which will offer a wide range of activities for our older residents and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive community,” he said.
