North Bay to host 2027 Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games

North Bay Police Chief Daryl Longworth receives the Special Olympics Ontario Games torch while along side on the North Bay's althetes at the 2025 Summer Games in Brantford, Ont., in July 2025. (North Bay Police Service/Facebook)

The 2027 Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games will be held in North Bay, marking the city’s first time hosting the event since 2015.

A historic return for North Bay

The North Bay Police Service will lead the Games, which are expected to bring more than 500 athletes and coaches to compete in alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, curling and figure skating.

The announcement was made Saturday night during the Closing Ceremony of the 2025 Special Olympics Ontario Summer Games in Brantford, Ont. North Bay Police Chief Daryl Longworth accepted the Games Torch from Brantford Police Chief Jason Saunders, while local Special Olympics athletes Aidan Restoule and Alisha Windsor received the Special Olympics Ontario flag from Brantford competitors.

A symbol of unity and hope

“Our Service is honoured to lead the charge in bringing the 2027 Winter Games to North Bay,” said Chief Longworth, in a social media post. “Receiving the torch and flag alongside one of our athletes was an unforgettable reminder of what these Games represent. We are excited to bring that energy home and begin preparing to welcome the province in 2027.”

The Games, set to take place between January and March 2027, will include multiple days of competition, ceremonies and community events. Planning will be spearheaded by the North Bay Police Service alongside volunteers and local partners.

A legacy of inclusion

Cody Jansma, CEO of Special Olympics Ontario, praised North Bay’s commitment to the movement. “Special Olympics started right here in Ontario and has grown because of committed communities like North Bay,” Jansma said. “We’re thrilled to see the flame of the Games passed forward and know that North Bay will create something truly special in 2027.”

Details about games and volunteer opportunities will be released in the coming months.