Waterloo Region will host 2026 Ontario Summer Games
Posted Apr 10, 2025 12:37:41 PM.
Last Updated Apr 10, 2025 02:55:31 PM.
Waterloo Region has been selected to host next year’s Ontario Summer Games.
Minister of Sport, Neil Lumsden, made the announcement in Waterloo on Thursday morning.
“Our government is proud to support Waterloo Region’s bid to host the 2026 Ontario Summer Games, and provide Ontario’s athletes with the opportunity to compete with their peers from across the province,” he said. “These Games will attract thousands of visitors, driving domestic tourism to the region, boosting the economy and showcasing the fantastic attractions found throughout the area.”
The 2026 Summer Games are expected to lead to a $6 million economic boost with more than 4,000 young athletes, coaches, and officials coming to town.
“Hosting these games will strengthen collaboration in the community, boost tourism and the local hospitality industry, and underscore our ability to attract large-scale events,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman.
The Ontario Summer Games feature 24 sports including baseball, lacrosse, soccer and triathlon.
They’ll be put on through a partnership between Explore Waterloo Region, the Cities of Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge, and the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University.
The last time the Ontario Summer Games were held locally was in 2002, although Waterloo Region played host to the Special Olympics Ontario Spring Games last year.
