Donate

Kelowna announced as host city for Special Olympics Canada Winter Games 2028

January 20, 2026
    Kelowna announced as host city for Special Olympics Canada Winter Games 2028

    The 2028 Games, taking place from February 28 to March 4, 2028, is themed "Empowering Athletes, Inspiring Generations," and will be the first-ever Special Olympics Canada Winter Games held in British Columbia. Building on the legacy of the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games hosted in Vancouver in 2014, the Kelowna Games will leave a lasting impact for athletes, their families, volunteers, and the broader community. 

    In recent years, Kelowna has emerged as a trusted host for major sporting and cultural events, recognized for delivering exceptional experiences at both the athlete and community level. Hosting the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in 2028 underscores the city's capacity to welcome the nation and will generate a forecasted economic impact of more than $7 million, supporting local businesses and strengthening the region's year-round visitor economy. 

    “Welcoming the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games is an honour for our city. These Games reflect the power of sport in changing lives and bringing communities together. With investments from our government, Kelowna and Special Olympics Canada are well-positioned to deliver an exceptional experience for athletes, their families, and the volunteers who make these Games possible.”
    The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement) and Member of Parliament (Kelowna)

    In addition to its national impact, the Kelowna 2028 Games will serve as the qualifying event for athletes to represent Special Olympics Team Canada at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Switzerland in 2029, where competitors from more than 100 countries will compete on the world stage. 

    “Having Special Olympics Canada Games return to our province for the first time in 14 years will be a powerful source of pride, inspiration, and growth for our Special Olympics BC community. We hope this important national competition will shine a spotlight on Special Olympics BC’s skilled and passionate athletes with intellectual disabilities, life-changing year-round programs, and dedicated supporters in Kelowna and 55 communities across our province.”
    Dan Howe, President and CEO, Special Olympics British Columbia

    As Kelowna prepares to welcome the nation in 2028, the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games promise not only extraordinary athletic performances, but a powerful celebration or inclusion, determination, and community, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come. 

    Media Contacts:


    Tourism Kelowna: Lindsay Kelm, Travel Media & Communications
    Lindsay.kelm@tourismkelowna.com | 250-861-1515 ext. 204


    City of Kelowna: Cassie Brannagan, Community Communications Manager
    cbrannagan@kelowna.ca | 250-317-1608


    Special Olympics Canada: Sarah Barker, VP Brand, Marketing & Communications
    sbarker@specialolympics.ca