Beginning at 7 p.m., tonight’s opening ceremony will feature an athlete’s parade, the lighting of the Ontario Winter Games cauldron and fireworks. “As Orillia welcomes athletes from across the province for the second weekend, the 2026 Ontario Winter Games will stand as a memorable celebration of athletic excellence and the unifying power of sport,” said Neil Lumsden, Ontario’s Minister of Sport. “These Games will shine a spotlight on the talent, hard work and dedication of the young athletes invited to compete,” he said. Athletes from across the province will showcase their skills across venues in Orillia and Simcoe County. The second week of competition will feature alpine skiing, artistic swimming, 5-pin bowling, cross country, para-Nordic, fencing, futsal, snowboard, and wrestling. “Seeing the athletes return for Week Two is a reminder of the power of sport in creating memories and inspire future leaders,” said Will LaFrance, general manager of the Orillia 2026 Ontario Winter Games. “We are proud to continue celebrating the dedication and talent of these young athletes,” LaFrance said.
