Alberta Summer Games kick off in Strathcona County

News Release

Alberta Summer Games kick off in Strathcona County

Strathcona County will welcome Alberta’s top young athletes for the 2026 Alberta Summer Games.

From July 16 to 19, 2026, one of Alberta’s largest amateur sporting events will bring more than 2,400 athletes, coaches and technical officials from across the province to Strathcona County for the 2026 Alberta Summer Games. The Games are an iconic event for Alberta’s young athletes, providing the opportunity to compete at a high level, represent their communities, build lifelong friendships, and showcase the next generation of talent.

The Games are being delivered in partnership with Strathcona County and with support from the provincial government. Alberta’s government is investing $1,275,000 to support the 2026 host society in delivering the Games, including, transportation, food services, venues and promotion.

“The Alberta Summer Games give young athletes the chance to test themselves, represent their communities and build lasting connections. Hosting more than 2,400 participants is also a major moment for Strathcona County, with real benefits for local businesses and residents. We are proud to support an event that strengthens sport across the province and creates opportunities for the next generation.”

Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport
The competition is expected to generate about $3 million in direct economic activity to the Strathcona region, as athletes, families and spectators spend on local hotels, restaurants, retailers and attractions, providing a welcome boost for businesses throughout the region.

“The 2026 Alberta Summer Games are coming to Strathcona County, and I look forward to seeing these athletes compete. They have put in the discipline and hard work and now will have the chance to show what they’re made of. Alberta’s government is proud to be a financial partner in giving them the stage to compete. Thank you to Strathcona County for hosting an event that supports young athletes across the province.”

Nate Glubish, MLA for Strathcona-Sherwood Park
“The Alberta Summer Games celebrate the talent and dedication of young athletes while welcoming families from across the province. These games will showcase the spirit that makes our region so special and leave a lasting impact on our local businesses and communities.”

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville
The Games kick off July 16 at Emerald Hills Pavilion with an opening ceremony and the lighting of the cauldron. Athletes aged 11 to 16 will compete over the next four days across 13 sports, including baseball, tennis, beach volleyball and golf.

“These Games give these young athletes an opportunity to showcase all the hard work they’ve put into their sport. We are all really proud of their dedication and can’t wait to see them compete on a provincial stage.”

Bonnie Hunka, chair, 2026 Strathcona County Alberta Summer Games Society
For more than 50 years, the Alberta Games have helped launch athletic careers while leaving lasting benefits in host communities and supporting local infrastructure. More than 50 alumni have gone on to represent Canada at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, demonstrating the important role the Alberta Games play in developing future champions.

Quick facts
The Alberta Games are a biennial multi-sport event for Alberta athletes aged 11 to 16.
The first Alberta Summer Games were held in 1974 in Calgary.
More than 1,700 athletes will compete in the 2026 Alberta Summer Games after qualifying through zone trials held across Alberta.
About 600 coaches and technical officials will be part of the Games.
An estimated 1,500 volunteers will support the Games.