{"id":213795,"date":"2026-01-14T11:24:44","date_gmt":"2026-01-14T16:24:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/doppleronline.ca\/huntsville\/?p=213795"},"modified":"2026-01-14T11:24:46","modified_gmt":"2026-01-14T16:24:46","slug":"the-countdown-is-on-for-the-2026-ontario-55-winter-games","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/doppleronline.ca\/huntsville\/the-countdown-is-on-for-the-2026-ontario-55-winter-games\/","title":{"rendered":"The countdown is on for the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The countdown is on! <\/p>\n\n\n

<\/broadstreet-zone><\/strong><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Huntsville is thrilled to welcome the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games from February 3\u20135, 2026, bringing nearly 1,000 athletes, 100 family and friends, and over 200 volunteers to Muskoka for three days of spirited competition and celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This bi-annual event, hosted in partnership with the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA)<\/strong> and the Province of Ontario<\/strong>, promotes active living and community engagement for adults aged 55 and older. Huntsville last hosted the Games in 2019, and the community is buzzing with excitement to showcase its world-class venues, warm hospitality, and legendary volunteer spirit once again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Huntsville is proud to host these Games, which celebrate health, vitality, and the joy of winter in Muskoka. Our community has embraced this event wholeheartedly, and we can\u2019t wait to welcome athletes from across Ontario,” said Leslie Hutcheson, General Manager.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs one of the premier winter sporting events in our province, the 2026 Ontario 55+ Winter Games promises to be an unforgettable showcase of skill and competition. These Games are a testament to the unifying power of sport and the importance of lifelong healthy, active living. Our government is proud to support this event and help communities like Huntsville deliver multi-sport events, drive local economic growth and reinforce Ontario\u2019s reputation as a top destination for world-class events,\u201d said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special Events for Participants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

These exclusive experiences are designed to make the Games unforgettable for athletes and coaches:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Accreditation \u2013 Sponsored by Algonquin Outfitters<\/strong>
\ud83d\udcc5 Tuesday, February 3, 2026<\/strong> | \ud83d\udccd Deerhurst Resort<\/strong>
Participants will receive a warm Muskoka welcome during accreditation at Deerhurst Resort, featuring Algonquin Outfitters touches that set the tone for an authentic local experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opening Ceremonies \u2013 Sponsored by HomeEquity Bank<\/strong>
\ud83d\udcc5 Tuesday, February 3, 2026<\/strong> | \ud83d\udd56 7:00 p.m. \u2013 8:30 p.m.<\/strong> | \ud83d\udccd Canada Summit Centre<\/strong>
Kick off the Games with a Celebrity Skate Show<\/strong> featuring Kurt Browning<\/strong>, four-time World Figure Skating Champion and Canadian Olympian, and Alissa Czisny<\/strong>, two-time U.S. Figure Skating Champion. Enjoy the torch lighting ceremony and celebrate the spirit of competition and community.  Video clip attached.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Middle Night \u2013 Sponsored by TD Bank Group<\/strong>
\ud83d\udcc5 Wednesday, February 4, 2026<\/strong> | \ud83d\udccd Downtown Huntsville<\/strong>
Athletes and coaches will enjoy dining vouchers at local restaurants, live music, and the enchanting Lanterns & Ice<\/strong> celebration\u2014a true Muskoka experience to mark the halfway point of the Games.  Be sure to join the \u201cwatch party\u201d at River Mill Park to re-live some of the games best moments since arriving in Huntsvville.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Forest of Lights at Sandhill Nursery<\/strong>
\ud83d\udcc5 Thursday, February 5, 2026<\/strong> | \ud83d\udccd Sandhill Nursery<\/strong>
After medal ceremonies, participants can explore the magical Forest of Lights<\/strong>, featuring illuminated trails and festive installations. Tickets provided to all participants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Event Highlights & Community Impact<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  • Sports Lineup Update:<\/strong> Snowshoeing, Contract Bridge, and Fat Biking have been cancelled, but 11 competitive sports remain, including hockey, curling, skiing, volleyball, badminton, and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Sponsor Spotlight:<\/strong> Watch for the Performance Auto vehicle<\/strong> around town!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Legacy Fund:<\/strong> Every extra dollar raised will go to local senior groups\u2014last time, Huntsville contributed $87,000<\/strong> back to the community.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Souvenir Merchandise:<\/strong> available for sale on-site at Accreditation and the Summit Centre throughout the games.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Join the Fun:<\/strong>
    Visit www.huntsville2026.ca<\/strong> for schedules, volunteer opportunities, and updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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